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MERUEit UNIVERSITY, MACON, GEORGIA. 



GEORGIA BAPTISTS: 



HISTORICAL 



BIOGRAPHICAL 



J. H. CAMPBELL, 



PERRY, GEORGIA 







mzs^ 



MACOX, GA. : 

J. W. BURKE & COMPANY. 
1874. 



*$<$* 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1874, by 

J. H. CAMPBELL, 
In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. 



|THE LIB! 

WASH! NOT 



PREFACE. 



A LARGE EDITION of this work was published in 1847, which 
was soon disposed of. Various causes have delayed another 
edition until now. The object of the work, however, has been kept 
steadily in view, and the intervening years have been improved in accu- 
mulating materials for the present volume, much of which would have 
been otherwise lost. Though the author's success has been by no means 
commensurate with his wishes and efforts, yet he rejoices that his labor 
has not been entirely in vain. If the christians now on the stage will 
emulate the examples presented for their imitation in the following 
pages, it is confidently believed they and the world will be the better 
for it. His object from the first has been to rescue from oblivion the 
names and deeds of some, at least, who have glorified God by their 
works of faith and labors of love, and to stimulate the zeal of the living 
by the recital of their trials and sufferings. It is matter of profound 
regret, that the deeds of many others, equally worthy, will never be re- 
corded in human annals, their very names having perished from among 
men, though they are written in the Book of Life. The present and 
future generations of our denomination should never forget that it is, 
under God, to the wisdom and zeal of the fathers of our Israel in 
Georgia we owe our strength and prosperity, being stronger in numbers 
in this State than in any other State in the Union, and, perhaps, in 
proportion to population, more numerous than in any other country on 
earth. It is the memory of such men these pages are designed to pre- 
serve and perpetuate. It is their holy lives the author desires to hold 
up for the veneration and imitation of posterity. 

In preparing this work, the author has found it necessary to make free 
use of the labors of others, for which, in some cases, he has not given 
the usual credit. He hopes it will suffice for him to say in advance, 
and in general terms, that but for the writings of Mercer, Brantly, 



vi Preface. 

Mallary, Sherwood, Kilpatrick, Crawford, Mcintosh, and others, this 
volume, in its present dimensions, would never have seen the light. 
The interest of its pages has been greatly enhanced by their productions. 
It is not pretended that it is either complete or entirely free from error. 
But it is as complete as patience and perseverance on his part has ena- 
bled him to make it, with, the materials he has been able to command ; 
and, if there are errors, they are believed to be immaterial. Such as it 
is, he commends it to the favorable consideration of an indulgent reli- 
gious public, especially to those for whose entertainment and profit it 
has been compiled, with the fervent prayer that the Head of the Church 
will condescend to sanctify it to the accomplishment of some good, and 
that it may serve as a foundation upon which some future historian may 
erect a far nobler monument to our worthy dead. 

The Author. 
Perry, Georgia, January 2, 1874. 



HISTORICAL. 






HISTORICAL. 



INTBODTJCTION OF BAPTIST SENTIMENTS INTO THE 

STATE. 

THE first account we have of any Baptists in the province of 
Georgia was in the year 1757. Mr. Nicholas Bedgewood, who 
was employed in the capacity of agent to Mr. Whitfield's Or- 
phan House, near Savannah, had several 3 T ears previously been 
convinced of the truth of Baptist sentiments. In that year he 
went over to Charleston, and was baptized by Bev. Mr. Hart, 
the pastor of the Baptist church in that city. He was soon 
licensed to preach, and his ordination to the ministry took 
place in 1759. In 1763, he baptized several persons in and 
about the Orphan House, among whom was Mr. Benjamin Stirk, 
who afterwards became a minister of the gospel. To these 
persons, who were probably a branch of the Charleston church, 
Mr. Bedgewood administered the Lord's Supper, the first Bap- 
tist communion ever held in the province. 

Mr. Stirk, having lost his wife while at the Orphan House, 
married the mother of the late Rev. Thomas Polhill, of New- 
ington, in the vicinity of Goshen, eighteen miles above Savan- 
nah, to which place he removed in 1767. 

He appears to have been a man of good learning, fine natural 
parts, and eminent for piety and zeal. As there was no Baptist 
church in Georgia, he united with the church at Euhaw, S. C. 
He soon began to preach, and set up places of meeting, at his 
own house, and at Tuckaseeking, twenty miles higher up the 
country, where there were a few Baptists, and who constituted 
a branch of the Euhaw church. But of the useful labors of 
this faithful servant of Christ, they were soon deprived, as he 
was called to his reward in the year 1770. This was the second 
bud of a Baptist church in the State; indeed, it is not certainly 
known that they ever became a regular church. 

In the meantime, Mr. Botsford, a young licentiate of the 



10 Georgia Baptists — Historical, 

Charleston church, while on a visit to the Euhaw church, re- 
ceived an invitation to come over and help this feeble and des- 
titute branch. Encouraged by the mother church, and accom- 
panied by the pastor, JRev. Mr. Pelot, he came and preached to 
them his first sermon, on the 27th of June, 1771. His labors 
being highly acceptable, he yielded to their solicitations, and 
remained with them for more than a year. But his anxious 
spirit would not permit him to remain in one place. He trav- 
eled extensively, preaching in all the surrounding country ; and 
towards the close of the next year, he went still higher up the 
river, and commenced an establishment at what was at first 
called New Savannah, but now Botsford's Old Meeting-house, 
about twenty-five or thirty miles below Augusta. Here he had 
the pleasure of seeing the work of the Lord prosper in his hands. 

A little previous to Mr. Botsford's coming over to Tucka- 
seeking, Rev. Daniel Marshall, with other Baptist emigrants, 
arrived and settled on the Kiokee creeks, about twenty miles 
above Augusta. Mr. Marshall began forthwith to preach in the 
surrounding country. His principal establishment was on the 
Big Kiokee, and from this circumstance it received the style of 
the Kiokee Meeting-house. It was located on the site now oc- 
cupied by the public buildings of Columbia county, called 
Applington. 

Although Mr. Marshall was neither profoundly learned nor 
very eloquent as a preacher, yet he was fervent in spirit and 
indefatigable in labors, and the Lord working with him, he 
soon had the happiness of receiving and baptizing many new 
converts ; these, together with the .emigrant Baptists in that 
section, were constituted into a regular church in the year 1772. 
This was the first Baptist Church ever constituted in 
Georgia. At this time, Mr. Daniel Marshall was the only or- 
dained Baptist minister in the State; but, besides him, there 
were several zealous licentiates, i. e., Abraham Marshall, San- 
ders Walker, Solomon Thompson and Alexander Scott. By 
these the word of the Lord was proclaimed through all the up- 
country, and the scattered sheep of Christ were gathered into 
this fold from the remotest frontiers. Thus the word of the 
Lord ran and was glorified, believers abundantly multiplied, 
and the church greatly enlarged. 



Introduction of Baptist Sentiments into the State. 11 

By this time, Mr. Botsford had received ordination by the 
church in Charleston, that he might be more fully qualified 
to enter the large and interesting field of usefulness that 
lay before, him. He had already visited Augusta, Kiokee and 
other places, which at that time lay along the frontiers of 
Georgia and South Carolina. He became acquainted with Mr. 
Marshall, and though there, were at their first acquaintance cer- 
tain slight differences between these ministers with respect to ex- 
ternals, Mr. Botsford being of what was then called the regular, 
and Mr. Marshall of the separate order, a more intimate ac- 
quaintance soon destroyed these distinctions, and these devoted 
servants of the Most High became perfectly united in their 
efforts to disseminate the truth and to build up the Redeemer's 
kingdom. Previously to the ordination of Mr. Botsford, Mr. 
Marshall baptized for him, but subsequently, he baptized him- 
self many of the happy converts who believed under his minis- 
trations at New Savannah and in the surrounding country; and 
in the year 1773 he had the additional satisfaction to see a 
church regularly constituted in that place. This, Botsford's 
Church, was the second church in the State. It is still a 
highly respectable body, and is a member of the Hephzibah 
Association. 

These devoted heralds — missionaries of the cross — may well 
be considered the founders of the Baptist interest in Georgia. 
They continued, each in his sphere, aided by licentiates, to 
labor incessantly for the up-building of the churches, and to 
publish throughout the widely extended frontier settlements 
the gospel of the Son of God with a success that furnished un- 
equivocal evidence that the Lord was with them. Yet it does 
not certainly appear that any other churches were constituted 
by them, though materials for several others were prepared. 

Mr. Botsford married and settled on Briar creek, in Burke 
county, in the year 1774. But although he purchased land, 
stuck down his staff and built for himself a house, and for a 
time thought that he would enjo}^ his peaceful home for life, his 
heart was so fully set upon his work that he could not rest. 
He suffered not the charms or cares of domestic life to abate 
his fervent desire for the salvation of his dying fellow-men, nor 
to diminish aught from his activity in the cause of his blessed 



12 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Master. For, as his biographer says, "From the tabernacle 
which he had pitched upon Briar creek, he darted out into 
many surrounding regions, both in South Carolina and Georgia, 
and preached the gospel of the kingdom with his accustomed 
fervor and success." Daring this time, the church on the 
Kiokee was multiplying. Mr. Samuel Cartledge, Loveless 
Savidge and Silas Mercer were added to the number of her li- 
censed ministers. 

But about this period, the Creek and Cherokee Indians be- 
came very troublesome on the frontiers, and by their frequent 
incursions greatly harrassed the inhabitants, and at length 
quite broke them up. Soon after, the deeper horrors of the 
revolutionary war began to fill all with dismay — Savannah 
fell — Sunbury surrendered — General Ash was defeated, and at 
length the whole country was brought to submit to the British 
arms. Many sought safety in flight. Among these were Mr. 
Mercer and Mr. Botsford. These gentlemen were refugees in 
the interior States till the close of the war. But the intrepid 
Marshall stood his ground, and never deserted his post; like an 
apostle, having his dear people in his heart, to live and to die 
with them. Though the din of war was heard, rapine and vio- 
lence and bloodshed filled the land with consternation, the zeal 
,and perseverance of this brave soldier of the cross were not in 
the slightest degree abated. Assisted by a few licentiates who 
remained on the field with him, the good work went on ; the 
spirit of pure religion was progressive, and even in those times 
which tried men's souls, very many were converted to God. 

During the troubles above mentioned, it does not appear that 
many churches were constituted, yet the foundations for them 
were laid. Indeed, it is possible the Red's creek (now Aber- 
leen) church, was constituted within that period. The Rev. 
Loveless Savidge, who was pastor of this church, was one of 
the early licentiates of the Kiokee church, and it is natural to 
suppose, that he soon succeeded in raising the church j but of 
this, we have no certain information. There was also constitu- 
ted a church on Little Briar creek, in 1777, which still exists, but 
under whose labors we cannot now ascertain ; probable by the 
zealous efforts of the ReV. William Franklin and Joseph Bus- 
son, who were resident in this section at the close of the war. 



Introduction of Baptist Sentiments into the State, 13 

They were useful ministers in their day, abundant in labors 
and good fruits, and their praise was in all the churches. 

Shortly after the termination of hostilities, when peace spread 
her balmy wings abroad, and prosperity began to bless the 
country with her genial smile, the refugees returned; and those 
who had remained, both ministers and common members, who 
had been very much scattered, depressed, and almost estranged 
from each other, now became animated, arose in various settle- 
ments simultaneously, flowed together as by one common im- 
pulse, and were soon constituted into many churches. 

The Kev. Sanders Walker, who by way of distinction has 
been called the meek, residing at that time on Fishing creek, 
five miles north of Washington, in Wilkes county, having been 
ordained to the gospel ministry in the mother church, preached 
the gospel of the grace of God in the regions round about him. 
There were in his vicinity a number of Baptists, who either 
had emigrated thither, or were the fruits of the labors of Mr. 
Walker, himself and others. Among these brethren was Mr. 
John Milner, Sr., a most zealous and fervent exhorter, who 
afterwards became a preacher, and was very successful in his 
efforts to advance the cause of God and truth amongst his peo- 
ple. These were soon gathered together, and in 1783, were 
formed into a regularly constituted church, under the style of 
the Fishing creek church. 

The following year, 1784, Upton's creek church was consti- 
tuted. This was situated in the lower part of Wilkes, and went 
by the name of Upton's creek for some time, but upon building 
a new and convenient meeting-house some miles below, in a 
pine wood, surrounded by evergreens, it received the style of 
Greenwood, by which it is still known. By whom this church 
was founded we know not, but doubtless it was constituted of 
members from the Kiokee church, and formed under her aus- 
pices. Here the Kev. Peter Smith was settled soon after the 
war closed, and it is altogether probable that he was instru- 
mental in the formation of the church. He was the first pas- 
tor. In a short time, however, Mr. Smith removed to the State 
of Ohio, where he ended his earthly career. 

These were the churches in the State when the Georgia 



14 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Baptist Association was organized, and it would seem, were 
the constituent members of the body. 



INCREASE OF THE DENOMINATION. 

Soon after the close of the revolutionary war, the Baptist 
ministers began to extend their labors into the regions around 
them, which were rapidly settling up. The Lord gave them 
great success, so that the increase of the denomination has been 
almost unparalleled. In general, this increase has been gradual. 
Yet, as in other countries, the people of God in Georgia have 
experienced seasons of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. 
The first great and general revival of which we have any account 
remaining, was as early as 1802, during which about seven hun- 
dred were baptized in the Georgia Association. The heralds of 
the cross who reaped this harvest were doubtless extraordinary 
men. They preached because a stern necessit3 T was upon them. 
They could not live contentedly without warning sinners to flee 
from the wrath to come. The idea of gain did not seem to 
enter their minds — the good of souls impelled them to labor. 
In most cases, the infant churches (recently sprung up in 
what was then a wilderness) were unable to do anything to- 
wards the support of the ministry. These zealous servants of 
the Lord supported themselves by their own labor — and yet 
went everywhere preaching the word. They delivered their 
message in private dwellings, in log meeting-houses, or under 
the forest trees, as God gave them opportunity. But wherever 
they went, the Lord went with them, and multitudes were 
born into Zion. 

In 1812-13, a great work was carried on by the Holy Spirit. 
Over twelve hundred were baptized in the Sarepta Association. 
Many dated their awakenings from the shocks of earthquakes 
felt in 1S12. The Lord's ways are not as our ways. 

The late war with Great Britain had an unhappy influence 
on the prosperity of our churches. With this painful subject 
the public mind was engrossed; and though a blessed work of 
grace was experienced along the seaboard in 1822-23, yet no 
general refreshing was experienced until 1827, when the most 
remarkable 'and memorable revival broke out in Eatonton, that has 



Introduction of Baptist Sentiments into the State. 15 

ever blessed the churches in this State. Upwards of fourteen 
thousand were brought in during its progress. In only three 
associations, (the Georgia, Ocmulgee and Flint river,) over five 
thousand were reported in 1828 as having been baptized during 
the associational year. An impulse was then received by the 
denomination which has not been, and perhaps will never be, 
lost. The cause has been onward and upward — not only onward 
in the increase of its members, but upward in their improve- 
ment in every good work, in education, missions, etc. 

The following estimates, taken from authentic sources, will 
give some idea of the rapid increase of the denomination. In 
1825 there were ten associations, two hundred and sixty 
churches, one hundred and thirty-three ordained and licensed 
preachers, and eighteen thousan'd four hundred and eighty-four 
members. In 1829, there were three hundred and fifty-six 
churches, sixty-six of which were constituted in the two latter 
years, about two hundred ministers, and twenty-eight thou- 
sand two hundred and sixty-eight communicants. In 1835, 
there were twenty-one associations, five hundred and eighty- 
three churches, two hundred and ninety-eight ministers, and 
forty-one thousand eight hundred and ten members. And now 
in 1845, there are forty-six associations, four hundred and sixty- 
four ministers, nine hundred and seventy-one churches, and fifty- 
eight thousand three hundred and eighty-eight communicants. 
As will be seen, when we come to notice the associations sepa- 
rately, there are some churches belonging to several of these 
bodies in the adjoining States. But it is believed the above 
estimates give as correct an idea of the real strength of the 
Baptists in Georgia as could be expected on such a subject. 
In 1860 there were eighty-six thousand nine hundred and sev- 
enty-eight members, and in 1873 about one hundred and sixty 
thousand members.* The denomination is stronger in Georgia 
by twenty thousand, than in any other State in the Union, and 
stronger by twenty-five thousand than all other denominations 
in this State combined. 

*In thirty years the denomination has nearly trebled in numbers. 



16 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

BENEVOLENT INSTITUTIONS. 

MISSIONS, EDUCATION, TEMPERANCE SOCIETIES, SUNDAY-SCHOOLS, 

ETC. 

As all these objects are nearly akin, it is thought proper to 
connect them together in this sketch of the Baptists in Georgia. 
The first two ministers that ever constituted churches in this 
State were friends of missions and education, to wit., Daniel 
Marshall and Edmund Botsford. Both acted as missionaries — 
one as a foreign, the other as a domestic missionary. Marshall's 
flaming zeal carried him to the Mohawk Indians — Botsford 
traversed the wilderness from Ebenezer, near Savannah, to 
Kiokee, above Augusta, to bear the glad tidings to his neigh- 
bors, who were "perishing for lack of knowledge." (See their 
biographies.) Abraham Marshall spent a great portion of his 
life as a traveling preacher, (a domestic missionary,) and was 
untiring in his efforts, with his brethren of the General Com- 
mittee, in favor of missions and education. He educated both 
his sons at Franklin College, Athens, and in 1815 preached a 
sermon before the trustees of that institution, in which he dis- 
tinctly urges the importance of ministerial education. (See his 
biography.) In 1793, Silas Mercer established a classical school 
-on his own premises, and continued it until his death in 1796. 
Here his own son, Jesse Mercer, then a married man and an 
ordained minister, pursued a course of study in the languages, 
which he had commenced with Eev. Mr. Springer two years 
before. In 1805, at Bark Camp, A. Marshall reports that they 
had petitioned the Legislature for a charter of a college, but 
without success. In 1805 the circular of the Georgia Associa- 
tion, by Jesse Mercer, notices some of the objections and fears 
entertained by some in regard to the General Committee. 
Some feared that one object of the body was to commune with 
pcedo-Baptists — others, that they aimed to establish religion by 
law — and others, that they intended to have a learned ministry 
only. These are most triumphantly refuted. 

In about 1806 the "Mount Enon Academy" (a literary and 
theological school,) was opened, and was continued some five 
or six years. It had funds, supposed to be worth some three 
or four thousand dollars, and for a short time enjoyed some 



Benevolent Institutions. 17 

prosperity under Mr. Thomas EC. Dixon, and subsequently under 
Eev. C. 0. Screven. But from causes unknown to the writer, 
it was finally abandoned. No systematic plan for educational 
purposes was attempted for several years. But even during 
this period, the cause* of education found many warm friends 
among our people in this State. In proof of this, it need only 
be mentioned that some $20,000 were drawn hence for the Co- 
lumbian College, District of Columbia. 

In 1813 the Savannah River Association formed a standing 
committee for domestic missions. In 1814 the Georgia Asso- 
ciation, after having read the minutes of a mission society in 
Savannah, recommended those friendly to unite in forming a 
similar body at Powelton. Accordingly, in May, 1815, a large 
society was formed, and had the next year in its treasury 
$483 43f. In 1816, the committee raised for the purpose the 
preceding year, reported rules touching the grand missionary 
design — twelve trustees were chosen, called "The Mission 
Board of the Georgia Association." This board had existence 
till 1825, when the business was turned over to the State Con- 
vention. In 1816-'17 the Ocmulgee Mission Society was or- 
ganized, and one in the Sarepta, perhaps a year earlier. Similar 
movements in favor of this object were made in the Sarepta 
and Ebenezer Associations about this time. 

In 1819, Eev. F. Flournoy was appointed agent to the Creek 
Nation of Indians to consult in regard to a school, and in 1820 
the plan for Indian reform was formed, and was to be under the 
direction of the Ocmulgee, Georgia and Ebenezer Associations. 
In 1821, the Ocmulgee ai)pointed delegates to aid in forming 
the General Association, which was done at Powelton, Hancock 
county, in June, 1822. In the same year the mission society of 
said Ocmulgee Association was voted to be incorporated by a 
unanimous vote. Strange, that now, in 1874, that association is 
anti-missionary! But so it is. 

The above, though nothing but a brief sketch, would seem to 
be sufficient to prove as clearly as that the sun produces light, 
that the Baptists in this State, as a people, have always been 
friendly to ministerial education, missions, etc. And yet it is 
doubted by many at home and abroad. 

The Temperance Cause is believed to have found its first 
2 



18 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

friends and advocates among the Baptists. The first society- 
formed in the State was at Eatonton, and was suggested by 
Deacon Thomas Cooper and Eev. A. Sherwood, D. D., now of 
St. Louis. A State Temperance Society held its anniversary for 
several years in connection with the sessions of the Georgia 
Baptist Convention. Afterwards it was located in Milledge- 
ville, and was held during the sittings of the Legislature. 

On the subject of Sabbath-schools, we will treat at large in 
our notices of the State Convention, Associations, etc. 



BAPTIST CONTENTION OF THE STATE OF GEOEGIA. 

The suggestion for the formation of this body appeared in 
the minutes of the Sarepta Association, of October, 1820. The 
resolution was drawn by Eev. A. Sherwood, and presented by 
Charles J. Jenkins, father of ex-Governor Jenkins :. " Resolved, 
that we suggest for our consideration, and respectfully that of 
sister associations in this State, the propriety of organizing a 
general meeting of correspondence." The original resolution 
was : " Eesolved, that we suggest to sister associations in this 
State," etc. The Ocmulgee, being earliest in session the next 
year, approved the object of the suggestion, and appointed 
messengers to meet such as might be sent by other associations. 
The Georgia, which met in October, also appointed messengers, 
named Powelton as the place of the first meeting, and June 
succeeding, 1822, as the time. The Sarepta, however, at her 
very next session, resolved that she saw no need for any such 
meeting ! 

1. In June, 1822, messengers from the Georgia and Ocmulgee 
met and agreed on a constitution, in which the body was styled 
" The General Association," and to be composed of delegates 
from such associations as chose to unite. 

ORIGINAL CONSTITUTION. 

1. This body is constituted upon those principles of christian 
faith exhibited in scripture, generally acknowledged and re- 
ceived in the Baptist denomination. 

2. The constituents of this body are the Baptist associations 
iin the State of Georgia, or as many of them as may think 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 19 

proper to accede to the terms of this Convention ; and also two 
delegates from such auxiliary societies as contribute annually 
to our funds, whose constitutions may be approved. 

3. It shall be known and distinguished by the name of " The 
Baptist Convention for the State of Georgia" and shall form the 
organ of general communication for the denomination through- 
out the State. 

4. Each association may send not less th^n. five, and not more 
than eight delegates, to represent them in this body ; and all 
delegates shall hold their appointments until others are elected 
to succeed them. 

5. The officers of this union shall be a moderator, a clerk and 
assistant clerk, and a treasurer, who shall be appointed by 
ballot at each annual meeting, and shall form a committee of 
the body during the recess of the meeting; but this committee 
may be increased as occasion may require ; and have authority 
to fill any vacancies which may happen, and also that of the 
treasurer. 

6. The moderator shall perform the same duties that devolve 
on moderators in the several associations, and in addition to 
this, shall be authorized to call meetings of the committee in 
the interval of annual meetings, should he deem it expedient. 

7. The clerk shall enter in a book, all the trasactions of this 
body. The assistant clerk shall take charge of all distant com- 
munications, to or from this body, and shall write all the letters 
which it may require. 

8. The treasure shall take charge of all the moneys, speci- 
alties, and property of all kinds, belonging to the body — give 
sufficient security for the amount in his hands — report the state 
of the funds from time to time, as the Convention may direct — 
and hand over to his successor in office all its moneys, prop- 
erty, etc. 

9. Questions of difficulty may be referred from any of the in- 
dividual associations, to the deliberation and advice of this 
body. 

10. The acts and proceedings of this body shall be submitted, 
from time to time, to its constituents for inspection ; and none 
of its decisions shall be binding on the associations or auxili- 
aries. 



20 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

11. The following are the specific objects of this body, viz: 

1. To unite the influence and pious intelligence of Georgia Bap- 
tists, and thereby to facilitate their union and co-operation. 

2. To form and encourage plans for the revival of experimental 
and practical religion in the State and elsewhere. 3. To aid 
in giving effect to the useful plans of the several associations. 
4. To afford an opportunity to those who may conscientiously 
think it their duty to form a fund for the education of pious 
young men, who may be called by the Spirit and their churches 
to the christian ministry. 5. To correspond with bodies of 
other religious denominations, on topics of general interest to 
the Redeemer's kingdom, and to promote pious and useful ed- 
ucation in the Baptist denomination. 

12. It shall have power to form rules, make arrangements, 
and appoint committees for the accomplishment of any and all 
the above projects : Provided, none of these rules and arrange- 
ments shall be inconsistent with the scriptures and the known 
principles of the associations. 

13. Two-thirds of the whole number of delegates shall form 
a quorum, and a majority shall decide a question. 

14. When its funds will justify it, this body may send dele- 
gates to the General Convention of our denomination in the 
United States. 

15. The above constitution shall be liable to amendment or 
alteration, by two-thirds of the delegates present : Provided, 
the change may have been proposed by a member of the con- 
vention at the preceding meeting. 

2. In 1823 the session was again in Powelton. The Sarepta 
sent corresponding messengers. Several subjects of importance 
engaged the attention of the body : practical religion, weekly 
meetings, Sabbath schools, observance of the Sabbath, etc. 
Rev. AV. T. Brantly, Sr., and A. Sherwood preached on the 
Sabbath. 

3. The meeting for 1824 was at Eatonton, in April. The 
Sun bury Association, having approved the constitution, became 
a member of the Union. Letters from distinguished brethren 
in various parts of the United States, in answer to the corres- 
pondence of the clerk, touching a uniform system of doctrine 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 21 

and discipline, were read. All the associations in the State were 
invited to take up the subject; but the scheme was abandoned, 
after an ineffectual effort. 

4. The session of 1825 was also at Eatonton. The Yellow 
River Association, having been formed the preceding year, 
appointed five corresponding messengers, of whom only Rev. 
Joel Colley attended. Rev. Jesse Mercer read an exposition of 
the twelfth chapter of Revelation, and an essay on the perma- 
nent officers in a church, was read by Rev. Henry J. Ripley, 
now professor in Newton Theolgical Institution. The disserta- 
tion read last year by Rev. A. Sherwood, and his introductory 
sermon of this session, with Mr. Mercer's exposition, were or- 
dered to be printed. The agents had brought in $67, and 
after Mr. Mercer's mission sermon on the Sabbath, $218 were 
collected. Rev. William B. Johnson of South Carolina was 
present and preached at this session. John M. Gray was ap- 
pointed general agent. 

5. Augusta entertained the body in 1826. By an amendment 
of the constitution, auxiliary societies were allowed to send 
delegates. The Hephzibah auxiliary sent J. Key and J. H. T. 
Kilpatrick. The Georgia and Ocmulgee Associations trans- 
ferred their funds to this body, that it might conduct the busi- 
ness of missions, etc., amounting to $857,07] from the former, 
and $107 from the latter. " Rules for interpreting scripture," 
and an "Essay on a call to the ministry," by AY. T. Brantly 
and I. L. Brookes, were read and ordered to be printed in the 
Columbian Star. J. Toole, and indigent young minister, who 
had been studying under Mr. Brantly in Augusta, was adopted 
by the Convention, and money appropriated for his support. 
He afterwards prosecuted his studies with Rev. James Shannon, 
who succeeded to the pastoral care of the Augusta church upon 
the removal of Rev. Dr. Brantly to Philadelphia. 

6. The sixth session was at Washinton, in April, 1827. The 
Flint River auxiliary was admitted as a constituent: John 
Reeves and Benjamin Willson, messengers. Fifty dollars were 
appropriated for theological works for indigent ministers, and 
J. Toole and Thomas Walsh (lately a Methodist) were benefi- 
ciaries. 

7. In May, 1828, the body convened at Monticello. New aux- 



22 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

iliary societies were represented — the Sarepta by Jeremiah 
Reeves and Thomas Walsh, and the Yellow River by B. H. 
Willson and J. Travis. The name of the bod} 7 was changed to 
u Convention." An essay on the talents mentioned by Mat- 
thew, was read by Rev. Mr. Kilpatrick, and ordered to be 
printed in the Star. The Eaton ton church proposed to furnish 
instruction by its pastor, Rev. A. Sherwood, to all young minis- 
ters who desired to, improve their minds, and also board — pro- 
vided the Convention would supply as much as the church's pres- 
ent contribution. One young brother was examined and sent 
to Eatonton, and the next year two others were sent to the 
same place. "Rules to regulate the reception of beneficiaries" 
were adopted at this session. 

8. The eighth anniversary was held at Milledgeville, in March, 
1829. Rev. B. M. Sanders' exposition of Matthew, eleventh 
chapter and twelfth verse, was read and directed to be printed, 
and Rev. Mr. Mercer's "prerequisites to ordination," to be pub- 
lished in the minutes. Mr. Josiah Peneield (late of Savannah) 
had bequeathed to the Convention $2,500 as the basis of a per- 
manent fund for the purposes of theological education, to be 
paid on condition that a like sum should be raised by the body 
for the same object. Our people had not been accustomed to 
pay large sums, and it was considered a happy circumstance 
that notes were promptly given by responsible persons to the 
amount of $2,500, the sum required to be made up. This may 
be considered an epoch in our history in Georgia, for an impulse 
was then given to the cause of ministerial improvement, which 
has already resulted in incalculable good, and which it is be- 
lieved will be felt for ages yet to come. Already has this small 
beginning been augmented to near $200,000. In Savannah, 
where he lived, and labored, and died, the name of Penpield 
will be long held in sacred remembrance; and among the Bap- 
tists of this State he will ever be regarded as a benefactor of 
God's people. 

Pike county auxiliary society was received at this session. 

9. The Convention in 1830 was held at Bethesda church, 
Greene, count} 7 . New auxiliaries joined — McDoneugh and 
Rocky creek, in Laurens. The labors of several missionaries, 
employed a portion of the previous year, amounted to more 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 23 

than two years' service of one man. Many valuable theologi- 
cal works had been distributed among our indigent ministers, 
whose libraries had been thereby greatly improved. From 
year to year there was a slow, but perceptible and profitable, 
improvement in our ministry. Several essays and sermons, all 
bearing on this important subject, were ordered to be printed 
for gratuitous circulation. Thus that mighty engine, the press, 
was doing its work to aid in rousing the energies of our people 
in favor of this object. And all this was necessary : for during 
several preceding years, the Convention was compelled to bear 
up against most formidable opposition, in the objections of many 
influential ministers and laymen. Dissatisfaction and disaffec- 
tion were increasing and spreading to the remotest parts of the 
State; and were shown more violently by some who had for- 
merly been its professed friends, than by any others. This oppo- 
sition w T as fast tending to a crisis. 

10. Buck-head church in Burke county received and enter- 
tained the body in 1831. Several new auxiliaries joined: La- 
grange, Jasper and Putnam county societies. The following 
important resolution was passed with great unanimity, viz : 
"Resolved, that as soon as the funds will justify it, this conven- 
tion will establish, in some central part of the State a classical 
and theological school," to be connected with manual labor, and 
those preparing for the ministry only to be admitted. This 
resolution was not suffered to die without being carried into 
effect — for though a site was not purchased until the following 
year, yet it was only because the committee to whom this mat- 
ter was confided could not find an eligible location. Bev. A. 
Sherwood, with his characteristic decision and energy, agreed 
to raise by subscription $1,500 for the purchase of lands, etc. 
This engagement was faithfully fulfilled and the amount raised. 

While education, particularly the education of the ministry, 
was thus engaging much of the attention of the Baptists in 
this State, the cause of missions was by no means overlooked. 
On the contrary, the streams of benevolence in this respect 
were widening and deepening every year, and these were pour- 
ing forth the blessings of the gospel to the remotest parts of 
the earth. 

It was announced that the Ocmulgee Association had with- 



24 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

drawn from the Convention; also, that the Convention had 
been incorporated by the Legislature. 

11. Powelton, Hancock county, was the seat of the session in 
1832. Auxiliary societies were admitted from Morgan and 
Gwinnett counties, and from the Chattahoochee and Tugalo 
Associations. Brethren Campbell, Lumpkin and Kilpatrick 
preached on the Sabbath. Mr. Lumpkin's sermon, on minis- 
terial education, was ordered to be printed. Beneficiaries were 
reported as being under instruction at Athens, Crawfordville, 
G-ainsville, Euckersville, and under Eev. Mr. Sherwood near 
Eatonton — eight in all. This was a season of mourning and 
distress on account of the recent death of Eev. Jabez P. Mar- 
shall. The plan of a manual labor school, to be called " Mer- 
cer Institute" was adopted, and the site, (now called Penfield, in 
honor of the late Josiah Penfield of Savannah, Georgia,) seven 
miles north of Greensboro' in Greene county,, was selected. 

12. The session for 1833 was at McDonough in Henry county. 
The attendance was very numerous, and the deepest interest 
manifested by all in the proceedings of the Convention. Eev. A. 
Sherwood's introductory discourse was ordered to be printed, 
as also, Mr. Mercer's dissertation on u - Resemblances and differ- 
ences between associational and church authority." While 
strong opposition had shown itself in various parts of the State, 
still it was evident that the body was rapidly growing in pub- 
lic confidence and favor. At the close of the session, Mr. 
Sherwood, who had served as clerk for ten years, resigned. 

13. In 1834, the body met at Indian creek church, Morgan 
county. New auxiliaries were received from Athens, and Tal- 
bot, and Walton counties. Jesse Mercer, N". W. Hodges of 
S. C, and James Shannon, preached on the Sabbath. Mr. Mer- 
cer's discourse on ministerial education was ordered to be prin- 
ted. Eecommended the organization of a Baptist Sunday- 
school Union for the State. The Manual Labor School at Pen- 
field was reported to be in a prosperous condition, having 
about eighty pupils — five of whom were looking forward to the 
gospel ministry. A gracious revival had been experienced 
during the year, when some thirty of the pupils were baptized. 
The "Mercer Institute," from its commencement, had been 
under Rev. Billington M. Sanders as principal, than whom a 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 25 

more laborious and indefatigable instructor perhaps never lived. 
He continued in this position seven years. 

14. The session of 1835 was at Shiloh church, Greene county. 
Introductory sermon by Eev. J. H. Campbell. The Georgia 
Association was the only association belonging to the Convention. 
It was made up mostly of auxiliary societies iu different parts 
of the State. This session the Central Association joined, 
being represented by Thomas Cooper, James Evans, John E. 
Dawson, Jesse Travis, Lot Hearn, J. H. Campbell and William 
Hearn. The following auxiliary societies also joined: Twiggs 
county, Putnam county, Mercer University, Newton county, 
Mountain creek, in Harris county, Island Ford, in Gwinnett 
county. Letters were received from the southwestern part 
of the State, "entreating that brother Everett be continued as 
a missionary in that section of the country." Agreed to en- 
deavor to raise $3,000 during next year for foreign missions. 
Eesolutions were adopted in favor of the religious instruc- 
tion of our colored population. A package of tracts in Bur- 
mese was received from brother Simons, our missionary in 
Burmah. Agreed that the constitution as amended, be printed 
in connection with the minutes. 

15. The fifteenth meeting was at Talbotton in 1836. New 
auxiliaries : Sarepta, Meriwether, Upson, Bibb, Coweta and 
Heard county, and Piney Grove Society. A plan for a Southern 
Baptist college was presented in a report, and the names of 
fifty persons, from among whom trustees should be selected by 
the executive committee of the Convention. During the pre- 
ceding year the body had pledged itself to endeavor to raise 
$3,000 for foreign missions. But it was ascertained at this ses- 
sion that she had more than redeemed her pledge — $5,712 17 
having been sent up for this object alone. It was resolved to 
attempt to raise $10,000 next year, but owing to the reverse in 
the pecuniary affairs of the country, this attempt was a failure 
in part. 

It may be proper to state that the "Southern Baptist Col- 
lege" was suggested at Washington, Wilkes county, in the 
spring of 1835, and some $10,000 subscribed in that county 
alone for the object. By this time over $35,000 had been sub- 
scribed, and the Central Association had resolved to raise $20,- 



26 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

000 for the endowment of a theological professorship, etc. In 
the fall of 1836, a charter was obtained and the trustees ap- 
pointed. These trustees met at Athens, in August, 1837, and 
though about $100,000 had been subscribed, strong objections 
were made to Washington as the site. The project was aban- 
doned with reference to that place, and the executive committee 
were requested to. endeavor to carry out the main design, if 
practicable, at some other place. The Central Association soon 
held a session at Madison, and recommended the raising up of 
" Mercer Institute " into a college. The agents then went to 
work with the subscribers, to prevail upon them to change the 
direction of their subscriptions in favor of Penfield. In this 
they were generally successful. In December, 1837, the powers 
of the executive committee of the Convention were so enlarged 
by the Legislature that they could establish a college and confer 
degrees. In May, 1838, the Convention chose new trustees and 
appointed the first meeting of that board to be on the 10th of 
July ensuing. "Mercer University" was the name given to 
the institution, in honor of Bev. Jesse Mercer. 

16. The anniversary for 1837 was held at Ruckersville, in 
Elbert count}^. The Hephzibah, Appalachee and Mountain As- 
sociations became component members, and new auxiliary so- 
cieties (Bethel and Monroe counties) were received. The in- 
terest of this session was greatly enhanced by the ordination of 
Edward A. Stevens, of the Sunbury church, as a missionary to 
the East. He had but recently finished his theological course 
at Newton, Mass., and been accepted by the Board of Foreign 
Missions, and was the first native Georgian who had been des- 
tined to labor among the heathen of the Eastern world. The 
amount for foreign missions received during the year was 
$6,215 20. Funds in the hands of treasurer for education of min- 
isters, building, etc., $21,562 60, besides lands and improve- 
ments at Penfield and subscriptions for "Mercer University." 

17. The 17th session was held at Monroe, Walton county, in 
1838. Washington Mission Society was received. The college 
charter was approved and appended to the minutes. Messen- 
gers were in attendance from South Carolina Baptist Conven- 
tion. A catechism for Sabbath-schools, prepared by teachers 
of the Sunday-schools in Augusta, Ga., w T as favorably noticed. 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 27 

The following notice was taken of the American and Foreign 
Bible Society : 

The committee appointed to report a resolution with respect 
to the American and Foreign Bible Society have had the sub- 
ject under consideration, and feel deeply impressed with the 
idea of the importance of the institution. An effort to give the 
Bible, faithfully translated, to the world, is no common under- 
taking, and should, in the view of the committee, draw forth 
the best feelings and. engage the most cordial co-operation of 
all christians. Therefore, 

Resolved, That we have entire confidence in the board of 
managers of this society ; that we approve its objects, and that 
we request our brethren generally, so far as they have oppor- 
tunity, to contribute to its funds. 

Amount received for foreign missions and kindred objects, 
$5,334 83i 

18. In 1839 the body convened at Bichland, Twiggs county* 
New constituents : Columbus and Rehoboth Associations. At 
the request of " Cave Spring Manual Labor School" in Floyd 
county, a committee was appointed to confer with the trustees 
on the interests of said school. The Mercer University was 
reported to be in successful operation, with ninety-five students 
in the two departments. Upwards of $5,000 were sent up to 
the session for the various objects of the Convention, and the 
whole amount in the hands of the treasurer, about $28,000. 
Sixty-one delegates, from various associations and societies, 
composed the bod} T , with a congregation of between three and 
four thousand in attendance. 

19. Rev. Asa Chandler delivered the introductory discourse 
to the nineteenth anniversary, at Penfield, May 1st, 1840. 
Jesse Mercer was re-elected moderator, J. E. Dawson clerk, and 
C. D. Mallary assistant clerk. The Christian Index, (with 
printing press, dues, etc.,) was received as a donation from Rev. 
Jesse Mercer. After considerable discussion, the offer was ac- 
cepted "without a dissenting voice." and resolutions adopted 
expressive of the gratitude of the Convention ,to the reverend 
donor for his generosity. The printing office and house was 
worth some $2,000— some $3,000 due the concern— about $1,000, 
money advanced for the office, he discounted in favor of the 



28 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Convention — and furnished the office with a new font of type 
worth $500. The usual objects claiming the attention of the 
body are gaining ground in the estimation and charity of the 
denomination. 

20. The delegates who formed the session of 1841 met at 
Thomaston, Upson county. Introductory by Eev. Albert Wil- 
liams. Eev. B. M. Sanders, moderator, in place of Jesse Jlercer, 
who had been called to his home on high during the previous 
year. In his death, the Baptists have sustained perhaps the 
greatest loss they had ever experienced in the State. Dr. Curtis, 
an Englishman, pastor of the church in Macon, delivered the ser- 
mon on education, on Sabbath — a rare production. ~No business 
of extraordinary interest transacted. 

21. The session at LaGrange, Troup county, in 1842, was 
very numerously attended. Rev. J. H. Campbell introduced 
the meeting by a sermon from 2 Cor., v. 14: " For the love of 
Christ constraineth us." The Flint river and Western Associa- 
tions were received as constituent members. The trustees of 
Mercer University held a session during the recess. Some dif- 
ferences which had existed among them were adjusted, and 
peace once more reigned. B. M. Sanders was moderator, TT. H. 
Stokes clerk, Y. R. Thornton assistant clerk. The interests of 
"Hearn Manual Labor School" excited much attention. J. H. 
Campbell proposed a plan for its relief, which was finally suc- 
cessful. The management of the female school at Penfield ex- 
cited some unpleasant discussion in this meeting. 

22. The Convention was at Madison in 1843. Introductory 
by S. G-. Hillyer. B. M. Sanders president, W. H. Stokes sec- 
retary, and V. R. Thornton assistant secretary. The body was 
composed of delegates from thirteen associations and three 
auxiliary societies. The Bethel Association joined here. Isaac 
McCoy, (missionary to the Indians,) J. S. C. F. Frey, the Jew, 
and Rev. William B. Johnson, were in attendance ; also, J. G-. 
Binney, late pastor of Savannah church, and now under ap- 
pointment as a missionary to Burmah. Eight domestic mis- 
sionaries have been sustained more or less of their time, and 
the same number of beneficiaries are under instruction in Mercer 
University. The Convention became auxiliary to the American 
Indian Mission Association, (much interest having been excited 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 29 

therein by Eev. I. McCoy, their agent,) and appointed H. Posey 
and E. Dyer to attend as messengers. In the adjournment, the 
parting hand was given to brother Binney and his wife, whose 
faces were expected to be seen no more by the members of this 
body — a most touching scene ! 

23. The twenty-third anniversary was at Cave Spring, in 
Floyd county, in 1844. Owing to the remoteness of the situa- 
tion, the attendance was not as numerous as usual, yet it was 
quite respectable. B. M. Sanders moderator, Thomas Stocks 
clerk. Besides the ordinary transactions, (which show the 
body in a prosperous condition,) arrangements were made to 
take possession of " Hearn Manual Labor School," voluntarily 
offered to this body by its board of trustees. A most valuable 
situation for a school is thus secured to the denomination, be- 
lieved to be worth twenty or twenty-five thousand dollars. 
" Hitherto the Lord hath helped us !" 

ROUGH ESTIMATE OF DOMESTIC MISSIONARY LABOR, ETC., PERFORM- 
ED BY THOSE EMPLOYED BY THE CONVENTION. 

The missionaries have performed about eighteen years' labor 
in destitute parts of the State, i. e., their services have amounted 
to the labors of one man for that time. This is a very low es- 
timate — probably twenty-three or twenty-four years would be 
nearer the truth. They established the first churches in the 
bounds of the Western Association, in Troup and contiguous 
counties, out of which that body was formed in November, 1829. 
The principal missionaries in that region were James Reeves 
and John Wood. In Cherokee country, too, the first churches 
were gathered by brethren in the employ of the Convention, of 
whom Jeremiah Eeeves, Phillips and Pearson were prominent. 
Several of those in Randolph, Lee, etc., in the Bethel Associa- 
tion, were gathered by the labors of Travis Everett, another 
missionary. 

These evangelists have circulated bibles, religious books and 
tracts in great numbers. Much gratuitous service on behalf of 
the body has also been performed, in order to remove prejudice 
and stir up the churches to practical godliness. Many indigent 
ministers have been furnished with libraries, and others have 
received from the Convention valuable additions to their reli- 



30 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

gious reading. Upwards of forty young ministers have been 
aided, more or less, in their education by the charity of the 
body. And many thousands of dollars have been sent far hence 
to heathen lands, to aid in sustaining a living ministry and dif- 
fusing abroad the Word of Life. Without the means of ascer- 
taining the precise amount, it is believed that not less than 
640,000 have passed through the treasury for the foreign mis- 
sion cause alone. 

24. In regard to the session of this body for 1845, the author 
is dependent on his memory, having failed to obtain a copy of 
the minutes. He remembers that it wa* held at Forsyth ; that 
it was largely attended by both delegates and visitors, and that 
Sanders was moderator and Mell, clerk. Dr. Burrows, then of 
Philadelphia, now of Richmond, was present, also Isaac McCoy, 
missionary to the Indians, through whose efforts a deep interest 
was awakened in favor of that long neglected and much in- 
jured race. It was agreed to continue correspondence with the 
American Indian Mission Association, and Eev. Y. R. Thornton 
was appointed a messenger. This association was organized 
to remedy, in some measure, the neglect with which those 
tribes which held slaves were being treated by the Northern 
boards. Isaac McCoy was one of the most devoted and useful 
missionaries of modern times. His whole soul seemed to be ab- 
sorbed in the welfare of the poor Indians. 

25. The Convention met in Macon in May, 1846. The intro- 
ductory sermon was preached by Rev. Josiah S. Law, and was 
a masterly effort. The same brother subsequently read an 
"Essay on the Religious Instruction of the Colored Race among 
us," for which a vote of thanks was tendered to him, and the 
essay ordered to be published, as was also his sermon. The 
clerk was instructed "to print in the minutes the names and 
post-offices of all the ministers of the Baptist denomination in 
the State," occupying seven pages. This record was renewed 
eighteen years in succession. The utility of such publication, 
made annually, is not entirely apparent to the author. The 
executive committee reported that the domestic missions under 
their supervision were in a prosperous condition : E. Hedden in 
Cherokee Georgia, and David Ryals in Tattnall and Irwin 
counties. Said committee had recommended to the Marion 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia, 31 

Board, James Huckins and "W". M. Tryon as missionaries in 
Texas, under the assurance that liberal contributions for their 
support would be forthcoming from Georgia. They were ap- 
pointed, and were among the most useful men who ever 
preached in the "Lone Star State." Tryon soon fell at his post. 
Huckins finally left Texas, and became pastor of a church in 
Charleston, S. C, where he fell a martyr to the cause of the 
South, having died suddenly from over-exertion in attending to 
our wounded and dying soldiers during the late war. His op- 
position to Abolitionism drove him from New England, of 
which he was a native, about thirty years ago. " Hearn Man- 
ual Labor School " is noticed in the minutes of this session, but 
as it is designed to give a separate history of that institution, 
the author will not allude to it further in the history of the 
Convention. 

26. The session for 1847 was held in the city of Savannah. 
Introductory by Eev. A. T. Holmes, and the education sermon 
by J. L. Eeynolds, then residing in Virginia. Dr. Shaver, of 
that State, now editor of the " Christian Index," was in at- 
tendance, also E. Holman, of Alabama, and E. Furman, of 
South Carolina. The Southern Baptist Publication Society was 
organized at this meeting. The project originated with the 
author of this work. Other brethren joined him in a call for the 
meeting in SaraniHih. Said meeting was attended by delegates 
from several Southern States, and the society was constituted 
under favorable auspices. Its headquarters were established 
at Charleston, S. C. Twenty-five or thirty thousand dollars, 
first and last, were raised to sustain it, and a number of valu- 
able works (among which was " Soul Prosperity," by Eev. C. D. 
Mallary,) were issued by it ; and finally it died — why, or how, 
the author has never been able to ascertain. Eev. A. M. Poin- 
dexter and Eev. J. P. Tustin were its general agents for several 
years, and prosecuted their agency with great energy. They 
were succeeded, if the writer's recollection is not at fault, by 
Ml*. J. J. Toon, recently proprietor of the "Christian Index." 
The society maintained a sort of ephemeral existence until the 
commencement of the late war, when it seems to have died in- 
testate. What became of its assets, if it had any, is a mystery 
which yet remains to be solved. 



32 Georgia Baptists — Historical, 

The boards of the Southern Baptist Convention held a meeting 
during this session, Eev. W. B. Johnson, D. D., of South Caro- 
lina, in the chair. 

The death of Eev. Humphrey Posey, James Lunsford and 
Joseph Ross were noticed in appropriate terms. 

The body listened to an interesting verbal report from Eev. 
David Byals, then missionary in Appling county and regions 
adjacent, and adopted measures, at his request, to secure a co- 
laborer with him in that destitute field. David Byals was a 
sound and impressive preacher, a devoted and highly successful 
missionary, and one of the most godly and pure-minded men 
the writer has ever known. Sermons delivered by Revs. A. T. 
Holmes and J. L. Reynolds were requested for publication. 

27. The Convention assembled in Griffin, May 5th, 1848. The 
introductory sermon, by Rev. Y. E. Thornton, from Eph. i. 22, 
"And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the 
head over all things to the church," was a discourse remarkable 
for its clearness, depth and power. As a gospel preacher — 
particularly as a doctrinal preacher — the writer has never heard 
Thornton's equal. 

Hon. Thomas Stocks, who had been elected moderator the 
previous year in Savannah, was re-elected to preside over the 
body, and was continued in the chair until the session in Au- 
gusta, 1847, when he declined a re-election. Eev. P. H. Mell was 
elected clerk, and C. M. Irvin assistant clerk. Correspondents 
were present as follows : From Virginia, J. B. Taylor; from 
Alabama, E. Holman ; from South Carolina, M. T. Mendenhall 
and R. Furman, and A. D. Cohen, agent for the American So- 
ciety for Ameliorating the Condition of the Jews. Eev. Mr. 
Parsons and Rev. Mr. Safford, Presbyterians, also took seats on 
the floor of the Convention. It was the custom in those days 
to invite ministers of other evangelical denominations to seats 
with the body. 

The Southern Baptist Publication Society again held a meet- 
ing during the recess of the Convention. 

Eev. C. D. Mallary read a most interesting and powerful 
document on Sunday-schools, which was afterwards published 
by the Southern Baptist Publication Society. 

The Marietta church applied for aid in completing their meet- 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 33 

ing-house, which, was granted, " so soon as the state of the 
general purpose fund will warrant such appropriation." The 
executive committee soon paid them one hundred dollars. 

Rev. A. D. Cohen, a converted Jew, was invited to address 
the body in favor of the American Society for Ameliorating the 
Condition of the Jews. Much interest was manifested in re- 
gard to the "Christian Index," a report was made on the sub- 
ject, and the following resolution was adopted : " That the im- 
provement and increased circulation of the 'Christian Index' 
demand the immediate and prayerful consideration of this con- 
vention." Under the direction of the executive committee, do- 
mestic missions were being vigorously and successfully prose- 
cuted in different parts of the State. Rev. D. G-. Daniell was at 
work in Atlanta, preaching, and having a meeting-house built 
for the use of an infant church of twenty members, recently 
constituted. Eyals was still sowing the good seed of the king- 
dom in Telfair, Appling and adjacent counties, assisted by 
Sauls. Duggan was doing likewise in Montgomery county and 
other portions of the pine regions. .Bibles and religious books 
were furnished to those missionaries, which they scattered in 
their fields of labor. ' These were some of the means employed 
by the Convention in those days for the promotion of the good 
cause in Georgia. The blessing of God attended them, and 
glorious were the triumphs of truth. 

28. The session for 1849 was held at Athens, commencing 
May 18th. Introductory by Rev. C. D. Mallary. Stocks con- 
tinued as moderator, and Mell as clerk. Visiting ministers, 
who took seats with the Convention, J. S. Baker, B. Manly, Jr., 
of Alabama, Drs. Hoyt and Church, of the Presbyterian church, 
Magill, of the Congregational, and Boring and Key, of the 
Methodist. Correspondents were present as follows : A. M. 
Poindexter, (then corresponding secretary of the Southern 
Baptist Publication Society, from South Carolina Baptist Con- 
vention j Mendenhall, Boyce, Cuthbert, Ball and others. Ball 
was announced as general agent of the Richmond Board for 
Georgia. 

The trustees of Mercer University were instructed "to fix 
terms of scholarship, single, perpetual and family." It was 
stated, on good authority, " that out of the whole number of 
3 



34 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

students graduated at Mercer, there is not one who is not either 
engaged in some useful and honorable employment, or dili- 
gently preparing to be thus engaged." 

Regret was expressed that the patronage of the Female 
Seminary at Penfield was so limited. 

Rev. J. S. Baker had resigned the editorship of the " Chris- 
tian Index," and B. M. Sanders was conducting it temporarily. 
A select committee suggested its removal " to Macon, Atlanta 
or elsewhere." 

Mr. J. E. Willett had been elected Professor of Natural Phi- 
losophy and Chemistry in Mercer University. The trustees 
never made a better appointment. 

Peter Northen, one of the best of men, and a competent and 
faithful officer, was re-elected treasurer of the convention. He 
has since gone to his reward in heaven. 

29. Marietta was the place of meeting in 1850. The opening 
sermon was delivered by Rev. Robert Fleming, and the educa- 
tion sermon on Sabbath by W. H. Stokes. The old officers 
continued. 

The Middle Cherokee Association and the Middle Association 
were received as constituents. 

An application for membership from a missionary society 
formed in Griffin Baptist church was at first rejected, but the 
rejection was reconsidered and the subject referred to a special 
committee, (of which the wise and venerable ex Governor Wilson 
Lumpkin was chairman,) who recommended its reception, and 
such a change in the constitution " as hereafter to exclude all 
auxiliary societies from direct representation in this conven- 
tion." The author doubts seriously whether a money basis, upon 
which auxiliary societies obtain representation, is entirely con- 
sistent with Baptist principles. 

" General Duff Green, by permission, made some remarks on 
the subject of education, and closed with an offer to this body 
of twenty thousand dollars to endow two institutions, a male 
and a female, at Dalton, provided others will contribute twenty 
thousand dollars more." This proposal was referred to a com- 
mittee, of which Rev. J. S. Baker was chairman, who subse- 
quently reported : " The objects of this society, however, (the 
one represented by General Green,) are so multifarious, and 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 35 

their accomplishment depends on so many contingencies, that 
this Convention, at its present session, cannot act understand- 
ing^ upon them j" which report was adopted. The speech of 
General Green was characteristic, and will not likely over be 
forgotten by those who heard it. 

A legacy of eight hundred dollars, " for the support and promul- 
gation of the gospel," from the estate of John Turner, of Upson 
county, was secured to this body, and paid over by Kev. A. T. 
Holmes, Jacob King and others. 

The committee on publications, of which T. U. Wilkes was 
chairman, after recommending several publications, say: "Last 
of all. and above all, toe recommend the Book — the Bible — the com- 
position of the Holy Ghost, the word of the living and only true 
God, which is able to make us wise unto salvation, through faith, 
which is in Christ Jesus." 

The trustees reported that they were still adding improve- 
ments to the buildings and campus of Mercer University. 
Nothing further, out of the ordinary routine of business, trans- 
pired at this session, if we may except a proposition emanating 
from Griffin and advocated by Eev. V. A. G-askill, to remove 
Mercer University to that cit}^, which elicited much warm dis- 
cussion, and which was rejected. 

30. According to appointment, the Convention assembled at 
Perry, Houston county, May 23d, 1851. The introductory ser- 
mon by N. M. Crawford, and that on ministerial education by 
J. E. Dawson. 

A communication from the Georgia Association was received, 
requesting the Convention "to recommend a proper catechism 
for the religious instruction of our families." Eeferred to a 
special committee, who reported a recommendation that a com- 
mittee be appointed to suggest some work of the kind which 
our people may be willing to adopt. W. H. Stokes was ap- 
pointed chairman of that committee. 

From the report of the special committee on the report of 
the trustees of Mercer University, the following sentence is 
extracted : "The official term of the board of trustees expiring 
with this session, your committee cannot forbear to express 
their unfeigned admiration on the review of their faithful dis- 
charge of the obligations, their prudent management of the in- 



36 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

tereets, and their enlightened and noble designings of the en- 
terprise committed to their care." This is only one of many 
similar records made by the Convention concerning not only 
the board of trustees, but also the executive committee. 

Eeports on missions, Sunday-schools, etc., were all encour- 
aging, and the following resolution, offered by Rev. Joseph 
Polhill, on the subject of schools, was adopted : " That it is 
cause of rejoicing to us that so many seminaries, for the edu- 
cation of males and females, have sprung into existence and 
are sustained under Baptist influence; that these seminaries 
are important agencies for the advancement of the Baptist 
cause aud the progress of truth ; that in view of these facts, 
our brethren be affectionately but earnestly requested to edu- 
cate their children at these institutions." 

Mr. Dawson's sermon on education, preached on Sunday, was 
requested for publication. 

J. II. Campbell declined re-election as a trustee of Mercer 
University, and at his instance Mr. James Clark, of Lumpkin, 
was appointed in his place. 

The executive committee reported having appointed Eev. J. 
F. Dagg as editor of the " Christian Index," and that a "full, 
complete and final settlement " had been effected with Rev. J. 
S. Baker, " of all matters relating to his former interest in the 
paper." 

31. The introductory sermon to the session at Columbus in 
1852, was preached by Rev. S. C. Hi 1 Iyer, and the education ser- 
mon on Sabbath by S. Landrum. A copy of the latter was re- 
quested for publication. The old officers were continued. 

The venerable William C. Buck, of Kentucky, corresponding 
secretary of the Bible Board of the Southern Baptist Conven- 
tion, was in attendance, and addressed the Convention. A large 
number of delegates and correspondents, besides many visitors 
male and female, were also present. 

The order of business was suspended on Saturday, at noon, 
"to afford the Rev. S. Bonhomme, agent of the American Soci- 
ety, for Ameliorating the Condition of the Jews, an opportu- 
nity to address the Convention." 

A committee was appointed at Lagrange, who were expected 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 37 

to "exercise a general supervision of the Bible interest" in 
Georgia, of which James Culberson was chairman. 

A large and spirited meeting was held at night in favor of 
Mercer University, addresses made by T. J. Burney, Hillyer, 
Dawson and Dr. Dagg, and the following resolutions adopted: 
"That the ample endowment of Mercer University is a matter 
of gratitude to Almighty God, and encouragement to our de- 
nomination," and "That this Convention set apart a day of 
concerted prayer for more young men who may become quali- 
fied for the labors of the ministry." 

The death of the faithful Domestic Missionary of the pine 
region, David Byals, was recorded with lamentations. 

The report on education expresses the gratitude of the Con- 
vention for the educational advantages afforded by Mercer 
University. But it does not stop there; it records the grati- 
fication of the members that seminaries are springing up in all 
parts of the State for the improvement of both males and fe- 
males, and that other denominations are vieing with the Bap- 
tists in promoting this good work. They rejoice also, in the 
means of education afforded by the State to the deaf and dumb, 
as well as to the blind. 

The subject of removing the Christian Index from Penfield 
to some larger town was again considered, without arriving at 
any definite conclusion. 

One hundred and forty students had been admitted into Mer- 
cer University within the collegiate year. 

It was decided that henceforth there shall not be a sermon 
on education preached annually as heretofore. 

32. At Atlanta, on the 22d of April, 1853, the introductory 
sermon to the thirty-second session of the Georgia Baptist Con- 
vention, was delivered by .Rev. B. F. Tharp. 

A large number of visiting ministers were present, among 
whom were T. J. Bowen, J. S. Dennard and W. H. Clark, mis- 
sionaries under appointment to Africa. Bowen had recently 
returned from that country, having spent several years there; 
but was intending to sail again soon, accompanied by Dennard 
and Clark. A meeting was held on Sunday night, which was 
largely attended, when addresses were delivered by said mis- 



38 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

sioilaries. Bowen's address especially excited deep interest, as 
he spoke from experience. 

The delegates to the Southern Baptist Convention, soon to 
assemble, were requested to bring the subject of establishing a 
mission or missions in Burmah, to the attention of that body. 

It was- suggested by the executive committee, that the fe- 
male Academy at Penfield, with its buildings, apparatus, etc., 
be transferred to the citizens of the village, it being a local in- 
stitution, which suggestion was approved, and it was accord- 
ingly so transferred. It had not been, on the whole, a nourish- 
ing school, and the management of it hadgiven'the Convention 
a good deal of trouble. 

fiercer University was reported to be highly prosperous, the 
number of students being greater than at any former period. 

At the instance of the Bible Board at Lagrange, the locality 
of that Board was changed to Savannah, and a new Board ap- 
pointed, of which Rev. J. P. Tustin was chairman. 

It was agreed to memorialize Congress "in favor of religious 
toleration of citizens of the United States all over the world," 
and a committee appointed for this purpose, of which Rev. S. 
Landrum was chairman. 

Donations of books were made to several ministers, among 
whom was A. T. Spalding. This had been a practice of the 
body for many years, and many of our ministers were greatly 
improved in this wa}^. 

A Sunday-school convention was held in connection with this 
session, and the report of its committee published in the min- 
utes. 

It was ordered that the constitution of this body, as amend- 
ed in 1848, be published with the minutes. 

33. The bod}^ assembled at Washington, Wilkes county, in 
April, 1854. The introductory discourse was delivered by Rev. 
J. P. Tustin, and the old officers re-elected. 

Revs. Samuel Henderson and Joseph Walker of Alabama, J. 
B. Jeter, E. B. C. Howell, and J. B. Taylor of Virginia, and J. 
C Binney, late missionary to Burmah, were in attendance. 

On Sabbath, Revs. Howell, Mallary and Binney preached in 
the Baptist church, and Jeter, Campbell and Henderson in the 
Methodist. Dr. Mallary's sermon, preached by invitation, was 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia, 39 

commemorative of Bev. B. M. Sanders, recently deceased, and 
was subsequently published in book form. Eev. N. M. Craw- 
ford preached to the colored congregation. 

The constitution was amended so as to allow each association 
four delegates, without reference to its numbers, and to an 
"additional delegate for every five hundred members; provided 
the number of delegates for any one association shall never 
exceed fifteen." This is the numerical basis of representation. 
The constitution already provided for the representation of 
auxiliary societies upon a money basis — each society, paying 
annually fifty dollars, being entitled to one delegate, and to an 
additional delegate for every hundred dollars; provided that 
such societies shall never have more than three delegates. The 
constitution thus amended, remains substantially the same to 
this day. 

The Bible Board at Savannah, had collected about three thou- 
sand dollars, had nine colporteurs employed, and were vigor- 
usly prosecuting their work. 

Ten beneficiaries were being educated, and nine preachers 
had received donations of books. 

34. The place of meeting, April 20th, 1855, was Newnan, 
Coweta county. TI. H. Tucker preached the opening sermon 
from Psalms, cxxii. 1: "I was glad when they said unto me, 
Let us go into the house of the Lord," which was a most ap- 
propriate and effective effort. The old custom of having an 
annual sermon on ministerial education was revised, and has 
been kept up since. 

Among the visiting ministers were J. M. Chiles, of South 
Carolina ; G-. L. Sandidge, J. H. Eaton and J. R. Graves, of 
Tennessee ; A. M. Poindexter, of Virginia ; S. Henderson and 
J. T. Tichenor, of Alabama; J. P. Tustin, of Charleston, S. 0.; 
A. C. Dayton, of Nashville ; and M. F. Buckner, missionary to 
the Indians, and A. D. Phillips, soon to sail for Africa ; also, A. 
JE. Stevens, from Burmah. On Saturday forenoon the regular 
order was suspended, and H. F. Buckner delivered one of the 
most impressive and telling speeches ever made in the Georgia 
Baptist Convention, upon which a collection was taken up for 
Indian missions, amounting to $1,139 00, and resolutions passed 
encouraging the Southern Baptist Convention to accept the 



40 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

charge of those missions, should the transfer be proposed by 
the Indian Mission Association. This transfer was effected 
and said association was dissolved. 

Quite a number of ministers had died during the year: 
Joshua S. Callaway, Isaac R. Eskew, Wyche Jackson, Samuel 
Cannon, Evans Pearsons, Henry Garland, "W. W. Arnold, and 
Henry Stevens. 

A package of books was donated by Dr. Adiel Sherwood, for 
which the thanks of the body were voted him. 

Mercer University was reported "in a flourishing condition." 
.Dr. Dagg had resigned the presidency, and Rev. JST. M. Craw- 
ford had accepted the position. 

35. The associations and societies composing the Convention 
were represented in Savannah, April, 1856, by one hundred and 
fifty-six delegates. Introductory by Rev. E. B. Teague, from 
Psalms, li. 12, 18. 

Hon. Thomas Stocks was prevailed upon to act as moderator, 
and was re-elected. " The former clerk having declined a re- 
election, J. F. Dagg was chosen clerk, and William C. Wilkes 
assistant clerk." 

" On motion of brother Warren : Resolved, That the sincere 
thanks of the Convention are hereby tendered to brethren P. 
H. Mell and C. M. Irvin for the very faithful and efficient man- 
ner in which they have served this body for eleven years as its 
clerks." 

Rev. P. W. Samson, now President of the Columbian College, 
D. C, was present as a correspondent from the Maryland Union 
Association. 

For more than a year preceding this session, the public mind 
of the denomination had been unusually disturbed on account 
of the affairs of Mercer University. At the instance of the 
trustees, Dr. Dagg had resigned the presidency, and Rev. K. 
M. Crawford had been elected in his place and had accepted. 
Professor Mell and other friends of Dr. Dagg had shown great 
dissatisfaction on the occasion, and he and Professor Hillyer, 
(a son-in-law of Dr. Dagg,) had resigned. The trustees had la- 
bored to quiet these dissensions, and had apparently been suc- 
cessful ; but they soon broke out again and became more serious 
than ever. Finally, the only course left to the trustees, as they 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 41 

believed, was to dismiss Professor Mell, which they did by- 
giving him, under an existing rule, six months' notice ; where- 
upon, with the consent of the board, he retired at once from 
the institution, and very soon thereafter published and circu- 
lated a pamphlet styled "An Exposition of Recent Events in 
Mercer University," arraigning the Board at the bar of public 
opinion. To this pamphlet neither the Board nor any member 
thereof had made any reply. 

It was under this unhappy state of affairs that the Conven- 
tion met in Savannah in April, 1856. The following extracts 
from the minutes show the action of the body on the subject : 

"Bead the report of the trustees of Mercer University, and, 
on motion of brother Gaskill, adopted the following resolution : 
1 Resolved, That the report of the Board of Trustees be referred 
to a select committee of seven, and that said committee be re- 
quested to examine the proceedings of the Board of Trustees 
concerning their dealings with brother Mell, seeking all the in- 
formation they can get from both parties.' 

"In accordance with this resolution, the moderator announced 
the following committee: Brethren M. A. Cooper, R. L. Mc- 
Whorter, Y. A. Gaskill, J. S. Baker, D. W. Lewis, and H. C. 
Hornaday. 

"Brother Baker having resigned his place on the committee 
to whom was referred the report of the Board of Trustees, the 
moderator appointed brother D. A. Yason to fill the vacancy. 

" The committee to whom was referred the report of the 
Board of Trustees, reported on Monday afternoon. During the 
reading of the report the convention adjourned until eight 
o'clock." At the appointed hour, " Resumed the reading of the 
report of the committee to whom was referred the report of 
the Board of Trustees, which was adopted," and is as follows : 

"report on the report of the board op trustees. 
" The committee to whom was referred the consideration 
of the report of the trustees of Mercer University, report 
that they have endeavored to discharge the duties assigned, 
as indicated by the resolution of their appointment, which 
requires them l to examine the proceedings of the Board of 
Trustees concerning their dealings with brother Mell, seeking 



42 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

all the light and information they can get from both parties.' 
Your committee deemed it most advisable to invite from Rev. 
P. II. Mell and the trustees respectively, a full exposition of the 
facts deemed by them pertinent and material to the subject 
submitted to them, and to require of each to submit what he 
had to present in writing, whether it consisted of testimony 
or ex parte statements. After careful examination of all the 
information afforded by the parties, your committee find the 
facts to be as follows, to-wit: beginning in July, 1854, on Mon- 
day of Commencement week, President Dagg, at Mercer Uni- 
versity, was found feeble and infirm, unable to meet with the 
Board of Trustees. He expressed his willingness to retire from 
the presidency, and take a subordinate position. The Board 
informally decided on this as desirable, and informed President 
Dagg of their views. His resignation was tendered and ac- 
cepted. The resignation of Dr. Dagg is ordered to be published 
with the reasons of its acceptance by the Board. The reasons 
stated in the notice to be published, as the grounds of accept- 
ance are the 'failing health and want of strength' of Dr. 
Dagg. 

" He objects to the reason as stated, as to the grounds of ac- 
ceptance. On the 7th of August, Dr. Dagg, by letter, calls on 
the faculty to testify to the fact that 'failing health and want 
of strength' are untruly stated as reasons stated in the pro- 
posed notice of resignation. On the same day, three of the 
professors, to-wit: Mell, Sanford and Willet, responded and tes- 
tified as desired by Dr. Dagg. Professor Willet dissenting to 
some particulars. 

" Professor Crawford declines to unite with these professors in 
this testimonial, assigning as his reasons, by letter, dated 14th 
August, addressed to Professors Mell, Sanford and Willet, in 
reply to Professor Mell, inclosing the letter of Dr. Dagg and 
the reply of the three professors, requesting the signature of 
Professor Crawford to the reply. 

"On the 13th December, 1851, the trustees met at Penfield. 
Dr. Dagg being present, presented to the Board his letter to the 
faculty, and the reply of Professors Willet, Sanford and Mell. 
A trustee asks if all the faculty had signed it. Another trus- 
tee replies that one member of the faculty had not, but had de- 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 43 

clined doing so, giving- his reasons in a letter to the other 
members of the faculty. As this letter had not been produced 
with the testimony, he had a copy of it, which was at the service 
the trustees. Dr. Dagg asked if that letter was addressed to 
the board? The reply was, 'it is not.' A trustee asks, has 
anyone authority for presenting it to the Board? A trustee 
replies that he has authority whenever he deemed it necessary 
to explain the course of its author. He then deemed it neces- 
sary. It was then produced and read. It is the reply of Dr. 
Crawford, setting forth his reasons for not signing the testi- 
monial sought by Dr. Dagg of the faculty. 

" The trustees pass resolutions in favor of Dr. Dagg, explana- 
tory and commendatory. Dr. Dagg expresses himself entirely 
satisfied. 

" The trustees elect Dr. N. M. Crawford President of the Mer- 
cer University; Professors Mell and Crawford being the only 
names voted for. 

" Dr. Crawford accepts the office, and at the suggestion of the 
committee notifying him of his election, has an interview with 
Dr. Dagg, which, as far as conducted, is by Dr. Dagg declared 
satisfactory. 

"Dr. Dagg agrees to continue as professor of theology until 
July thereafter. 

"At commencement in July, 1855, it is found that there had 
been a want of co-operation between Professor Mell and Presi- 
dent Crawford. 

"On the 23d of July, 1855, at Penfield, Dr. Dagg resigned the 
professorship of theology. 

"Professor Mell resigned his professorship of languages at this 
time also, giving as his reasons his dissatisfaction with Dr. 
Crawford as the president. It is accepted. At this time Pro- 
fessor S. G. Hillyer also tendered his resignation, and it is ac- 
cepted. 

" On Tuesday following the trustees reconsidered their accept- 
ance of the resignation of Professors Mell and Hillyer, and 
appointed a committee to strive for a reconciliation of the fac- 
ulty. 

" On this day President Crawford also tendered his resign a- 



44 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

tion as president. This was not acted on, but left to wait the 
action of the committee. 

"On Wednesday thereafter, the committee reported that a 
reconciliation had been effected, so as to produce co-operation 
in the faculty. 

" Thereupon President Crawford, Professors Mell and Hillyer 
were, by the trustees, requested to withdraw their resignations, 
and Dr. Dagg requested to continue as professor of theology. 

" The resignations are withdrawn, and Dr. Dagg agrees to 
serve as professor of theology, if such services are needed. 
The election of Dr. Crawford as president is reaffirmed by 
unanimous resolution of the Board of Trustees, concurring in the 
choice and tendering him their cordial support. 

" The president and faculty now meet with the board, and 
evince a purpose to co-operate in their business. 

" On the 25th of August, 1855, Dr. Crawford having heard of 
statements as coming from Professor Mell, derogatory to him 
officially and personally, addressed him a note repeating what 
he had heard, and asking Professor Mell how far it was true. 
On the 4th September, 1855, Professor Mell replied at length, 
waiving a direct or categorical answer — but reiterating the 
charges made by him against Dr. Crawford, numerically three, 
anterior to the reconciliation before the trustees in July previ- 
ous, with an apparent purpose to reaffirm those charges, and 
a labored effort then to urge and establish them. 

" On the 14th of September, Dr. Crawford replied to Professor 
Mell's letter, giving his views and opinions at length. On the 
17th September, 1855, Professor Mell acknowledges the receipt 
of Dr. Crawford's letter of the 14th, only to satisfy the de- 
mands of courtesy; declines further discussion, and closes by 
saying that if from any cause Dr. Crawford finds himself an- 
noyed by the present aspect of thing3, it is entirely out of his 
power to relieve him. 

"On the 18th of September, 1855, Dr. Crawford tendered his 
resignation to the trustees, as president, advising them of a 
want of harmony in the faculty, stating the impossibility of 
co-operation, because of the hostility of the professor of -lan- 
guages to the president. 

" On this occasion Dr. Crawford submitted to the Board, the 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 45 

correspondence between Professor Mell and himself, to-wit; 
the four letters dated 25th August, 4th September, 14th Sep- 
tember and 17th September, 1855. 

" On the 23d October, 1855, the trustees met at Penfield, and 
the resignation of Dr. Crawford was submitted to them, with 
the correspondence above specified. By a committee appointed 
for that purpose by the trustees, Dr. Crawford and Professor 
Mell were invited to add to the statements contained in their 
correspondence, anything they might offer, and for this to 
come before the trustees. They respectively appeared, and 
presented what they had to offer. 

"After consideration the trustees resolved to retain Dr. Craw- 
ford, and dispense with the services, as professor, of brother 
Mell, and so advised them. 

" Brother Mell felt aggrieved, and prepared, published and cir- 
culated his ' Exposition of Recent Events,' setting forth a com- 
plaint against the trustees of injuring him, wronging him in 
this, that they condemned him without a hearing, and refused 
to submit their charges against him, or to confront him by his 
witnesses. 

" From the foregoing facts, your committee are of opinion that 
the proceedings of the Board of Trustees, in their dealings with 
brother Mell, have been prompted by a desire faithfully to ad- 
minister the trust confided to them; that in the course of ad- 
ministration, they were under the painful necessity of re-organ- 
izing the faculty of the College under circumstances of great 
trial, arising from the want of harmony and co-operation in 
the faculty. The difficulty and magnitude of these trials arose 
.mainly from the fact that the schism existed between the most 
worthy brethren and eminent professors, making it indispen- 
sable in either alternative to set aside one or more professors, 
who, under other circumstances, they might and would have 
gladly retained. 

" As regards the wrong and injury complained of by brother 
Mell, your committee are of opinion: 1st. That Professor Mell 
was not removed on account of charges preferred— not as the re- 
sult of a trial and conviction for malfeasance or non-feasance — 
acts committed or duties neglected — but simply for and on ac- 
count of the fact, that there was not and could not obtain a 



46 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

co-operation between him and President Crawford, whom the 
trustees deemed it best to retain; in doing which they have 
borne testimonial to the eminent services aud the distinguished 
ability of Professor Mell, and their confidence in him as a chris- 
tian minister. Your committee think it indispensable to a suc- 
cessful administration of the trust reposed, that the trustees 
should exercise the power of removal, with or without a trial, 
or charges preferred. The committee find that such has been 
the course in brother Mell's case, and that the result ought not 
to disparage his character as a professor and instructor, and 
may well have been done without imputation on his high char- 
acter as a christian and a minister of the gospel. 

MARK A. COOPER, Chairman:' 

When the trustees took action on the dismissal of Professor 
Mell, "the members of the Board present, were brethren Thos. 
Stocks, J. H. Campbell, V. R. Thornton, S. Landrum, H. Bunn, 
B. T. Tharp, Juriah Harris, James Thomas, D. B. Butler, T. J. 
Burney and O. L. Battle — -just a quorum. Rev. E. W. Warren 
came into town after a decision was arrived at." They were 
unanimous in that action. Whether it was wise on the part of 
the Board in remaining silent as long as they did, or on that of 
the Convention in calling them to account, are questions which 
others must decide. The author being an interested party, 
may not be qualified to decide them impartially. They are 
questions, however, which deserve, and will doubtless attract 
the attention of the student of history. 

Rev. Willard Preston, D. D., pastor of the Independent Pres- 
byterian church in this city, having died suddenly since the 
session commenced, it was resolved to regulate the sittings of 
the Convention so as to allow the members an opportunity to 
attend his funeral; and expressions of sympathy for his afflicted 
family were entered on the records. 

It was resolved to remove the "Christian Index" from Penfield 
to some one of the principal cities of the State, and to place 
the management of it for the future, in the hands of a com- 
mittee, to be styled "The Index Committee." The executive 
committee was instructed to determine the location, and "ap- 
point said committe, which they subsequently di$ by removing 
it to Macon. 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 47 

The Savannah Baptist Publication Society were authorized 
to turn over their business and assets to the Southern Baptist 
Publication Society. 

36. The session of 1857 was at Augusta, commencing the 24th 
of April. A large delegation and many visitors were present. 

Hon. Thos. Stocks declined a re-election, and Rev. P. H. Mell, 
D. D., was elected moderator. Resolutions were adopted ex- 
pressive of the high esteem in which Mr. Stocks was held by 
the body as a presiding officer and as a christian gentleman. 
The clerks of last year were re-elected. 

Rev. P. H. Mell preached the introductory, and Rev. William 
Williams the missionary sermon. 

Mercer University was reported "in a prosperous condition," 
and the following resolution adopted : " That the thanks of this 
Convention be tendered the late Board of Trustees of Mercer 
University for the efficiency and fidelity with which they have 
discharged their official duties." The old Board, especially the 
acting members, were all re-elected. 

An earnest and persistent effort was made to remove the 
University from Penfield, which failed. Hon. Mark A. Cooper 
in favor of, and Hon. N. G-. Foster against removal, were con- 
spicuous among the debaters. They both made powerful 
speeches, but Foster's side got the most votes. The current on 
this subject will no doubt change some day. 

37. The thirty-seventh anniversary was held at Americus, in 
connection with the fourth Sabbath in April, 1858. The ven- 
erable Adiel Sherwood, D. D., preached the opening sermon, 
from Acts v. 41. The education sermon was preached on Sab- 
bath by Rev. J. H. DeVotie, pastor at Columbus. 

Among the prominent brethren present were S. Henderson, 
of Alabama, J. E. Dawson, "William Williams, and Joseph E. 
Brown, then Governor of the State, who was a delegate from 
the Central Association. 

The " Christian Index " paper had "paid into the treasury of 
the Contention the sum of five hundred dollars for benevolent 
purposes." 

The income of Mercer University for the year amounted in 
the aggregate to $13,441: 71, and the amount reported by the 



48 . Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

finance committee sent up for the various objects of the Con- 
vention, was 114,602 40. 

The trustees of Mercer University held a meeting, and once 
more elected Rev. JN. M. Crawford, D. D., as its president, 
which position he accepted. 

The utmost harmony and good will prevailed throughout the 
session, and much important business was transacted with 
dispatch. 

[During this meeting the author came near losing his life 
by a fall, occasioned by an attack of vertigo, brought on by 
over-exertion, mental and physical, from the effects of which he 
has not recovered to this day, and probably never will.] 

38. The ensuing session, 1859, was held at Columbus, in 
April. The introductory, a characteristic and memorable dis- 
course, was preached by that man of God, C. D. Mallary, from 
1 John v. 21 — "Little children, keep yourselves from idols." 
The officers of last year were re-elected. 

"On motion of brother Landrum, adopted the following pre- 
amble and resolution : 

"Whereas, Individuals are contributing funds to sustain 
brother J. H. Campbell as an evangelist in Georgia for one year; 
and whereas, we are pleased with the movement, therefore 

"Resolved, That we cheerfully commend brother Campbell to 
the confidence and kind regards of the brethren generally." 

Contributions were made for the Tallahassee and Brunswick 
churches. 

Eev. J. E. Eyerson, pastor at Augusta, preached the educa- 
tional sermon on Sunday. 

Twelve young ministers were receiving aid from the educa- 
tion fund, and there was still room for more. 

During the preceding Conventional year, there had been re- 
ceived by the Domestic Mission Board for domestic and Indian 
missions, $38,834 37. The contributions for foreign missions 
had also been liberal, and the missionaries were encouraged in 
their work. 

The body expressed their regret that Eev. Joseph Walker 
had resigned the editorship of the "Christian Index." The 
paper was prosperous, and was paying a handsome profit. 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 49 

The Southern Baptist Publication Society and its publica- 
tions were noticed in commendatory terms. 

39. The anniversary for 1860 was held in Macon, in April. 
The opening sermon by Eev. N. M. Crawford, D. D. The edu- 
cational sermon, on Sabbath, was preached by Rev. H. A. 
Tupper, pastor at Washington, Wilkes county. 

The body received an- invitation to attend an exhibition of 
the pupils of the Georgia Asylum for the Blind, which was ac- 
cepted. 

The question of selling the " Christian Index " paper had 
excited more or less interest for years. At this session such a 
step was strongly recommended by the following committee: 
Mallary, Sherwood, Burney, Stocks, William Cooper, Irwin, and 
L. W. Stephens. This recommendation produced an animated 
discussion; but, "on motion of brother Campbell, the whole 
subject of the 'Index' was laid on the table" for the balance 
of the session. 

The question of continuing correspondence with the General 
Association of Middle Tennessee and Northern Alabama, also 
excited considerable interest and elicited some warm debate. 
This subject was also laid on the table, and correspondents 
were not appointed, and have not been since. Among the 
more prominent disputants on this subject were Rev. Mr. Hills- 
man, of Tennessee, and Hon. Lott Warren, of Georgia. 

Mercer University had been visited the preceding fall by a 
gracious and remarkable outpouring of God's Spirit, and many 
of the students had been converted to Christ. The institution 
was "in a condition of unusual prosperity." This was also 
true of foreign and domestic missions, Sabbath-schools, etc. 

The trustees of Mercer University and the executive com- 
mittee are again mentioned in most commendatory terms by 
the Convention. 

40. The Convention met with the Baptist Church, at Athens, 
April 26th, 1861, and held its fortieth session. Rev. E. W. 
Warren preached the introductory discourse, and that on min- 
isterial education, on Sabbath, was delivered by Rev. S. G. 
Daniel. 

Mrs. Jane Posey, relict of the late Rev. Humphrey Posey, 
had bequeathed to Mercer University, for ministerial education, 
4 



50 Georgia Bajrtists — Historical. 

one hundred shares of the stock of the Atlanta and West Point 
Railroad, (understood to be worth ten thousand dollars,) which 
was designated as the "Jane Posey Fund," and her likeness 
was ordered to be secured and deposited with others in the Uni- 
versity. The fund is to be permanent, the interest only to be 
used. This bequest was subsequently paid in full. The Uni- 
versity had " never been so prosperous as during the last two 
years." 

On motion of Rev. N. M. Crawford, a committee of five was 
appointed "to report resolutions appropriate to the condition 
of the country:" Crawford, Junius Hillyer, Stocks, Sisk, and 
Stockton. The report (which was unanimously adopted,) as- 
serts " that while this Convention disclaims all authority, 
whether ecclesiastical or civil," yet that the members, as citi- 
zens, " approve, indorse, and (will) support the Government of 
the Confederate States of America;" the union of all the people 
of the South is urged in defense of the common cause ; devout 
thankfulness to God is expressed for the signal favor with 
which he had blessed our arms and our policy; and the first 
and second days of June following were appointed for fasting 
and prayer, " that God will deliver us from all the power of our 
enemies and restore peace to our country." Similar action to 
this was taken the following year, and religious bodies gener- 
ally throughout the South expressed themselves in sympathy 
with the Confederate Government. Yet political differences 
were not then made, and never have been made, a test of fellow- 
ship among us. 

Under resolutions offered by Mr. T. J. Burney, the " Index " 
committee was instructed " to effect a sale of the ' Index' with 
:as little delay as possible, including all the outstanding dues 
and every other appendage connected with it ; provided, that 
a suitable purchaser can be found who will pay a fair price and 
continue its publication in Georgia;" and that "the proceeds 
of the paper be invested in a permanent fund, to be called the. 
1 Index Fund,' the interest of which shall be used for mission- 
ary purposes, or aid in defraying the incidental expenses of this 
body." These resolutions were not adopted unanimously. "A 
suitable purchaser " was found in the person of Rev. Samuel 
Boykin. and the sale of the paper was effected " with as little 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 51 

delay as possible," though, for some reason, the "Index" com- 
mitte never reported their action to the Convention. It is pre- 
sumed they did not feel called upon to do so. The paper might 
have been sold for more than it brought. 

Rev. A. B. Cabaniss, missionary to China, and Eev. George 
Bushy head, a Cherokee Indian, of North Carolina, were present 
at this session. 

The death of Rev. Kelly Lowe, colored minister, of Augusta, 
was noticed in affectionate terms. 

41. LaG-range, Troup county, was the place of meeting in 
1862. Rev. J. H. DeYotie preached the introductory, and 
Rev. N". M. Crawford the annual sermon on education. 

An hour each morning was spent in prayer for the country. 
The news of the fall of New Orleans was received during this 
session. 

At the suggestion of the auditing committee, a note on the 
late J. E. Dawson of one hundred and sixty odd dollars, sup- 
posed to have been the balance of an old subscription, was or- 
dered to be turned over to his widow. 

A committee of five was appointed to memorialize the Con- 
federate Government in favor of a more strict observance of 
the Sabbath by those in its employ, and the moderator was re- 
quested to prepare a tract on this subject for circulation among 
our soldiers. 

On Saturdy night a missionary mass meeting was held. Ad- 
dresses were delivered by Revs. Hornady, DeYotie and Sum- 
ner, and a collection was taken amounting to about six hundred 
dollars. 

Resolutions were adopted approbatory of J. H. Campbell as 
army evangelist, and recommending his mission to the counte- 
nance and support of the denomination. 

Correspondence has been maintained for years with the Ala- 
bama, South Carolina and Cherokee (Georgia) Baptist Conven- 
tions, and occasionally with kindred bodies of other States. It 
is deemed unnecessary to repeat a notice of this fact from 
year to year. 

The Georgia Bible Board and Colporteur Society held a 
meeting in connection with this session. 

42. The forty-second session of the Convention assembled at 



52 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Griffin, April 24th, 1863. Rev. W. T. Brantly, D. D., of At- 
lanta, preached the opening sermon, from Psalm cvii. 7, "And 
he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a 
city of habitation." The attention of the large congregation 
was most profound, and it is not often that the effect produced 
is more favorable. 

Eevs. A. E. Dickinson and William Huff, of Virginia, and 
Eev. M. T. Sumner, of Alabama, were in attendance. A mis- 
sionary mass meeting was held Saturday night in favor of do- 
mestic and foreign missions, which was addressed by Eevs. 
Dickinson and Cohen, Governor Joseph E. Brown and Colonel 
Peoples, and a collection was taken up amounting to $480 00. 
The collections on Sabbath amounted to $649 00. 

On motion of J. H. Campbell, a committee was appointed "to 
consider the propriety of taking some steps towards the edu- 
cation of the indigent orphans of our soldiers who have died, or 
may die during the present war." The committee were J. H. 
Campbell, M. J. Wellborn, Thos. Stocks, N. M. Crawford and B. 
F. Tharp. They memorialized the State Legislature, and issued 
an address to the people of the other Confederate States on the 
subject. It is believed the effort has accomplished much good. 
Five hundred dollars of the funds designated for arm} 7 mis- 
sions was appropriated to J. H. Campbell, evangelist in the 
Confederate army. 

" The parting scene was most affecting, and' the farewell cor- 
dial and affectionate. The meeting was unusually interesting, 
and the business transacted in a most fraternal spirit." . 

43. The Convention met in her forty-third anniversary at 
Atlanta, in April, 1864. The moderator, Eev. P. H. Mell, D. D., 
preached the opening sermon, from Acts xxi. 14, " The will of 
the Lord be done." The meeting was largely attended, both 
by delegates and visitors. Among the latter were Eev. William 
C. Buck, late of Kentucky, and Hon. J. L. M. Curry, of Ala- 
bama. The speeches of the latter gentleman were among the 
most eloquent and powerful ever delivered in presence of this 
Convention. 

The subject of establishing an asylum for the orphans of 
Confederate soldiers (introduced by Rev. W. L. Mansfield,) ex- 
cited deep interest, and occupied much of the time of the ses- 



Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia. 53 

sion. As it was doubted by some whether such an object came 
legitimately within the sphere of the operations of this body, 
an opportunity was allowed to form an organization for this 
special purpose, and the organization was accordingly formed 
and a large amount pledged for its support. 

On Saturday night a mass meeting was held, which was ad- 
dressed by Hon. J. L. M. Curry, in favor of army missions, and 
$2,105 63 were contributed for that purpose. 

Seven hundred and five dollars were appropriated to J. H. 
Campbell, army evangelist. 

A letter from General John B. Gordon was received and read, 
urging the appointment of ministers to preach the gospel to 
the army in Virginia. Sunday night was devoted to a meeting 
of prayer for the country. Thus the orphans of soldiers, the 
army, the country — these subjects engrossed the attention, and 
absorbed the feelings of all present. The army, under General 
Joseph E. Johnston, were lying at and around Dalton. Several 
ministers, and other brethren who had been laboring in that 
army as missionaries and colportuers, were in attendance at 
Atlanta. Colonel Edwards, a Georgian, a young man of noble 
person and mein, in full uniform, was there pleading for reli- 
gious papers, tracts, etc., for his regiment. Several of the minis- 
ters went up to the army and preached on Sunday, some of 
whom had never enjoyed such a privilege before. A wonder- 
ful revival of religion had been prevailing for months among 
the soldiers, and there was scarcely a regiment, or even a com- 
pany in which there had not been conversions. It was under these 
circumstances that the Convention held its session at Atlanta; 
and it was not wonderful that the hearts of all were stirred to 
their profoundest depths, especially when it was well under- 
stood that the spring campaign would very soon open. It did 
open within two weeks thereafter, and resulted in the fall of 
Atlanta, and finally in the destruction of the Confederate Gov- 
ernment. What hope would there be for us and our posterity, 
were it not that "the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth ! '•' 

(The session for 1865 was appointed to be held in Columbus 
the fourth Sabbath in April, 1865 ; but that city fell into the 
hands of the enemy about a week previous, so that no meeting 
was held that year.) 



54 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

44. The forty-fourth session of the Georgia Baptist Conven- 
tion was held in Macon, commencing April 20th, 1866. Intro- 
ductory by Rev. B. F. Tharp, from Gal. i. 8, 9. The war was 
ostensibl}- closed, and the country in such a condition that few 
had the means of attending. There were very few visitors, and 
the delegation about half as large as usual. Ii was clearly 
manifested, however, that the few who assembled still retained, 
in all its fullness and profundity, their interest in that cause 
which was still dearer to them than that of their ruined country. 

The 5th an,d 6th articles of the constitution were amended, 
so that the officers of the body and the members of the executive 
committee "shall hold their offices until their successors are 
elected, in case, from any cause, an election shall fail to take 
place at the proper time." 

The treasurer of the Convention and of Mercer University, 
Mr. Thomas J. Burner, was highly commended for his efficient 
management of the funds in his hands, by which so much were 
saved "from the general wreck of the late war." 

The death of nine ministers within the past two years was 
recorded: CD. Mallary, W. A. Callaway, Robert Gibson. X. 
B. Cobb, W. D. Cowdry, E. M. Gait, Jarvis G. Johnson, A. C. 
Dayton and James M. Watt. 

Rev. X. M. Crawford had resigned the Presidency of Mercer 
University, and taken that of Georgetown College. Kentucky, 
and Rev. H. H. Tucker, D. D., was elected in his place, and 
finally accepted. The interest of the people in the cause of 
education had not abated but rather increased— so said Report 
on Education. 

In closing this brief and imperfect sketch of the u Baptist 
Convention of the State of Georgia," the most important and in- 
fluential Baptist organization in the State, the churches always 
excepted -it may be proper for the author to indulge in a few 
general observations. There are some who are opposed to all 
organizations of the kind, believing them unscriptural, and that 
their natural tendency is dangerous to the authority of the 
churches. The author has been a member of this Convention 
for thirty-eight years, having missed but one session in that 
time; and if any church has ever complained, or had cause to 
complain of its interference with her rights, the fact has never 



Georgia Association. 55 

come to his knowledge. Churches may abase their own au- 
thority, and do sometimes interfere officiously with the rights 
of each other. 

The plans and operations of this body are more comprehen- 
sive and efficient than those of any kindred organization known 
to the writer. It is an educational society, both literary and 
theological; a Foreign Missionary Society; a Domestic Mission 
Society; a society for the promotion of Sabbath-schools, Bible 
distribution, etc. And yet all its operations are carried on har- 
moniously and successfully. 

The wise and good men who organized the body, and who 
managed its affairs in its earlier history, have nearly all passed 
away. But they have left their impress upon those who re- 
main, and it is believed their influence for good will be felt as 
long as the Convention shall continue to exist. For this, the 
author most fervently prays! 

The affairs of Mercer University have mainly occupied the 
attention of the Convention for several years past, as may be 
seen by referring to the history of that Institution. As the 
minutes of several recent sessions are not in the hands of the 
author, he does not deem it important to give an account of 
them separately, but refers the reader to the sketch of Mercer 
University. Such account can be given in some future edition. 

GEORGIA ASSOCIATION. 

FORMATION AND EARLY HISTORY. 

With respect to the precise date of the constitution, there is 
some doubt, as the records of the early proceedings of this 
infant body were not preserved. There are no documents from 
which either the date or place of its formation can be fixed 
with certainty. It is most probable it took place at the Kiokee 
church. This was the mother church, and it would seem rea- 
sonable to suppose that the union was formed there. Indeed, 
Mr. Benedict, in his History of the Baptists, seems to admit it> 
and the testimony of Bev. Mr. Cartledge, then a licentiate 
in the church, goes to the same point, though the Bev. Mr. 
Sherwood, in his " Gazetteer of Georgia," places it at Fish- 



56 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

ing creek church, but without any testimony now in his pos- 
session. 

It is' generally agreed that it was constituted in 1784. It is 
evident it was a regularly constituted body in 1785, because the 
Eev. Mr. Mercer and Rev., Mr. Smith were received by the 
Charleston Association in November of that same year as mes- 
sengers from the Georgia, then but recently formed. Admit- 
ting, however, that it was constituted in 1784, then the con- 
stituent members would have been only Kiokee, Fishing creek, 
Upton's creek, (now Greenwood,) Red's creek, (now Aberleen,) 
and Little Briar creek ; but if it be placed in 1785, then must 
be added the churches at Phillips' mill and Whatley's mill, 
constituted in that year. 

The principal ministers belonging at that time to these 
churches were Abraham Marshall, Sanders Walker, Peter 
Smith, Silas Mercer, Loveless Savidge, William Franklin, and 
perhaps Alexander Scott. Mr. Scott soon after the war settled 
in South Carolina, and closed, (if he ever had any,) his connec- 
tion with this body. 

The Association, for some time after its constitution, held its 
sessions semi-annually in May and October; but of the body 
itself, or of the churches, which at that time increased with 
great rapidity, only a partial history can be given. 

In May, 1786, the body sat at Fishing creek, but of the pro- 
ceedings of that session there is no record, except the letter 
from the church to the Association, inviting the session of the 
body to be held with that church at that time. From this 
letter it appears that the Rev. Jeremiah Walker was then the 
clerk of the church and one of the messengers of the Associa- 
tion. Mr. Walker had then but recently emigrated from Vir- 
ginia and settled on Broad river, in Elbert county, and as there 
was no church nearer, he united with this church, but was soon 
dismissed, with others, to form another church, which was con- 
stituted in this same year and called Hebron. 

In October; 1787, the body assembled at Greenwood, as ap- 
pears from a letter of correspondence from the church at Phil- 
lips' mill, but of the proceedings of that meeting there is no ac- 
count. 

In October, 1788, the session was held at Clark's station. Of 



Georgia Association. 57 

this meeting we have the first printed minutes, and it would 
seem that there ought to be minutes of all the subsequent meet- 
ings, as the churches were requested to send their contribu- 
tions for this purpose; but, alas! but one solitary copy can be 
found until the session in 1795. 

Ey the minutes of this meeting it appears that Abraham 
Marshall presided as moderator and Jeremiah Walker served as 
clerk. The number of churches represented at the meeting was 
thirty-one. Besides those mentioned before, there were at this 
time the following churches, viz : Home's creek, South Carolina ; 
Briar creek, Burke county; Stephens' creek, South Carolina ; 
Vann's creek, Long creek of Ogeechee, Providence, Hebron, 
Walker's bridge, Buffalo, South Carolina; Ebenezor, Lower 
Rocky river, South Carolina ; Upper Rocky river, South Caro- 
lina ; Rocky creek, Dove's creek, Clark's station, Hutton's 
Fork, (now Sardis,) Millstone, Williams' creek, Tugalo, African, 
Soap creek, Cloud's creek, Falling creek and Indian creek. The 
additional ministers were Hezekiah Walker, James Mathews, 
Charles Bussey, Dozier Thornton, John White, Thomas Gil- 
bert, Jeptha Vining, John Newton, Jeremiah Walker, John 
McLeroy, Nathaniel Hall, Mathew Talbot, and John Cleveland, 
besides about a dozen licentiates. The Rev. Alexander Scott 
and Jacob Gibson, from South Carolina, attended this meeting 
as visitors and were cordially admitted as assistants in counsel. 

Several queries of moment were received and answered at 
this meeting, which will appear under the head of queries an- 
swered. 

One thing, however, occurred on this occasion^ which de- 
serves a passing notice. Mr. James Hutchinson, a Methodist 
preacher, appeared at this session and requested an opportu- 
nity to relate his experience and faith in Christ, with a view to 
his becoming a member of the church at that place. This privi- 
lege was granted him, and his relation being satisfactory, he 
was received into membership. But although he gave up the 
Methodist discipline and doctrines, and embraced fully those of 
the Baptist denomination, he did not feel at liberty to give up 
his baptism, having been immersed, upon a profession of his 
faith, by the Rev. Mr. Humphries, a regular minister of the 
Methodist connection. This was made a question Tor the As- 



58 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

sociation, then sitting, and to the body there appeared so much 
of gospel order in it, that Mr. Hutchinson was admitted by the 
consent of the body upon his baptism thus received. But in 
the end it terminated unfortunately. Many were not well 
pleased with such a course, and therefore it led on to strife and 
confusion. However, as he was an eloquent man, and truly 
fervent in spirit, many were conciliated by his zeal and perse- 
verance, and strong hopes were entertained that much good 
would be effected through his instrumentality. 

Not long after this, Mr. Hutchinson made a visit to his rela- 
tions in Loudoun county, in Virginia, and commenced preaching 
in the woods. The people erected a commodious arbor and 
stand, and here he continued his ministrations with great suc- 
cess for the space of twelve months. He received and baptized 
about one hundred persons as the fruit of his labors, and they 
were formed into a church. But here ended the joy ; for no 
sooner did they apply for admission into the Association, than 
the validity of their minister's baptism was called in question, 
which, of course, involved a question as to the validity of the 
baptism of the whole church. It became a subject of deep in- 
terest in the Association ; a majority prevailed against it. and 
consequently the church was rejected. At this particular crisis 
Mr. Hutchinson submitted to a re-immersion, and his people, 
with two or three exceptions, followed his example. Thus ter- 
minated a most fierce and distressing controversy. So much 
for admitting a pcedo-Baptist administration of the ordinance of 
baptism ! 

Soon after this Mr. Hutchinson returned to Georgia, loaded 
ivith goods. He entered into merchandise, and in him was ful- 
filled the declaration of Paul to Timothy, " But they that will 
be rich* fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish 
and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdi- 
tion ; for the love of money is the root of all evil ; which, while 
some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced 
themselves through with many sorrows." He plunged into 
worldly cares, lost his zeal for Grod, fell into transgression and 
was excluded from the church. And although he afterwards 
professed repentance, and was in some degree restored, he never 
regained his former standing and usefulness. He struggled 



Georgia Association. 59 

through a few miserable years in worldly pursuits, and died at 
last, under a cloud of darkness and deep distress. 

In May, 1789, the Association assembled with the church on 
Long creek of Ogeechee. And regular annual sessions were 
held at Whatley'smill, Botsford's meeting-house, Powel's creek, 
Red's creek, Phillips' mill and Island creek, up to the year 
1791 ; but of the proceedings of these meetings there are no 
records to be found. This is the more to be regretted, as some 
very important and truly interesting occurrences took place 
during this period. Besides the prosperity and rich increase 
enjoyed by the body, there was a season of sore trial — a season 
of distressing controversy and division. And it is now to be 
regretted that no record of these transactions has been left as 
a beacon to those who live in after times, to warn them of simi 
lar errors and similar troubles. As it is, however, we can only 
give a few sketches from memory. 

We have already seen that the Eev. Jeremiah Walker had 
emigrated from Yirginia and become a member of this Associa- 
tion. Mr. Walker had been a famous champion for the truth 
in Yirginia. He had vindicated the doctrine of free and sover- 
eign grace against the Arminian notions of free will and self- 
righteousness. He was bold and resolute in the defense of re- 
ligious liberty against the intolerant measures of the estab- 
lished clergy. For this he was shamefully treated and impris- 
oned. But he endured all for Christ's sake, not counting even 
his own life dear unto him, and came off in the end more than 
a conquerer through Him of whose cause he was the fearless 
and uncompromising advocate. But strange to tell ! after all 
this, this man yielded to temptation, and by transgression fell, 
shamefully fell, from his steadfastness, and sunk into disgrace ! 

Overwhelmed with a sense of guilt, he left Yirginia, and 
sought refuge among strangers, in a strange land; but shame 
and conviction followed him, and after a short time he returned 
to his aggrieved and offended brethren, made an humble con- 
fession, and besought them to forgive and restore him to their 
fellowship. His plea was heard and he was restored. Thus 
reinstated, he returned to Georgia, sought and obtained a union 
and fellowship with the brethren here, and from his self-loathing 
and deep humility, his burning zeal and powerful talents, he 



60 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

acquired again a considerable estimation among the churches. 
But now he adopted the Arminian scheme of doctrine, and 
began to build up the things he had in his better days attempted 
to destroy, thereby making himself, in the estimate of the 
Apostle Paul, a transgressor. 

This change of sentiment was probably the result of a defiled 
conscience, together with mortified pride ; motives, too, de- 
rived from the same corrupt source, might have induced him 
to bring the whole force of his mighty genius and the power of 
the weightiest arguments he could produce, to bear upon his 
newly adopted and beloved system of doctrines. He was soon 
joined by several others. These were Mathew Talbot, Na- 
thaniel Hall, of South Carolina, and David Tinsley. Mr. Tins- 
ley was his ablest ally. He had been the fellow laborer and 
joint sufferer of Mr. Walker in Virginia. They were confined 
for some time in the same prison. And Mr. Tinsley used to 
say that he received his first Arminian notions from Mr. Walker 
whilst thus shut up in prison. This occurred in the following 
way : As they were shut out from the world, incarcerated 
within the gloomy walls of a prison for the truth's sake, they 
frequently gave vigor to their minds, and wore the time away 
by taking different sides upon controverted points in theology. 
Mr. Walker used to take the Arminian side against his friend 
Tinsley, and most generally foiled him upon his own ground ; 
at least he was successful in making " the worse appear the 
better reason," to the no small injury of his brother ; for Mr. 
Tinsley was induced to adopt the system. This should be a 
warning to those who would sport with sacred things, or play 
with feigned arguments ; like edged tools in the hands of chil- 
dren, they are always likely to do more evil than good. Mr. 
Tinsley was a man of fine parts, amiable manners and exalted 
piety. Mr. Hall and Mr. Talbot, though of humbler gifts, in 
point of piety, would suffer nothing from a comparison with him. 

With such aids, it is not at all to be wondered at that Mr. 
Walker, for a time, spoiled the peace and disturbed the harmo- 
nious action of the Association. These men were labored with 
long and affectionately by several of the ablest ministers in 
the connection, but to no purpose. They continued to propa- 
gate their Arminian doctrines. This was the more distressing, 



Georgia Association. 61 

because it occurred simultaneously with the ingress of Metho- 
dist ministers into the State, who had already opened their 
artillery upon the principal ministers in the Association. Thus 
they were assailed by a strong opposition without, and annoyed 
by a powerful faction within. 

The question, as to the propriety of continuing the union 
under such circumstances, was agitated in the Association ; and 
after due deliberation, it was determined, that there was no 
propriety in associational intercourse, where there was no union ; 
and as they could not maintain fellowship with those who were 
endeavoring to propagate the erroneous doctrines above men- 
tioned, the churches were, by a large majority, advised to call 
these ministers to account, for the propagation of error, and 
for sowing the seeds of discord among brethren. They were dealt 
with accordingly, by the respective churches to which they be- 
longed, and excluded. Few of the private brethren in this 
State adhered to them, except a minority of the church at 
Hebron, to which Mr. Walker belonged and of which he was 
the pastor. These also were excluded. The next step was to 
gather these excommunicated persons together, with such 
others as could be induced to unite with them, into little par. 
ties, which they called churches, six or seven in number, includ- 
ing the two entire churches on Eocky river, South Carolina, which 
went off with Mr. Hall, their pastor. Of these materials an associ- 
ate connection was formed, which seemed to prosper for a time 
but it soon proved to be of mushroom growth. Mr. AValker, 
in a very short time, was called to his account, which event 
had the effect greatly to dispirit his followers ; and the body 
which he had formed, passed away as though it had not been. 
The remaining ministers and brethren, for the most part, made 
their recantations, and were restored to fellowship by their re- 
spective churches. Thus broke up a fearful and portentous dis- 
sension, which, like the dark cloud that passes off without rain, 
produced not such amount of mischief, as was at first appre- 
hended. 

The Association convened in October, 1792, at Fishing creek. 
Abraham Marshall was chosen moderator, and Peter Smith, 
clerk. It appears from the minutes of that meeting, that the 
number of associate churches had increased to fifty-six. Hence 



62 Georgia Bcqrtists — Historical 

there was an increase of twenty-seven churches in four years. 
The names of these churches are as follows : Shoulder-bone, 
Buck-eye creek; Callahan's mill, South Carolina; Scull shoals, 
Head of Briar creek, McBean, Buckhead, Bark camp, First 
Williamson's swamp, Second Williamson's swamp, Cag creek, 
White ponds, Fort Creek, Little Ogeechee ; Shockley's ferry, 
South Carolina; Bonnell's creek, Upper Little Ogeechee, Ohoopy 
creek, Averett's bridge, Little Ogeechee; Buck creek, Watery 
Fork of Buffalo, Fulsome's creek, Sandy hill, Ogeechee, North- 
fort creek, Beaverdam creek, and Fort of Tugalo. And of min- 
isters, there appears also to have been the following increase: 
Isaac Busson, Thomas Daniel, Samuel Cartledge, George Frank- 
lin, Thomas Mercer, Benjamin Dayis, John Thomas, Jesse 
Mercer, Timothy Carrington, Lewis Shelton, John Harvey, 
Benjamin Thomson, William Cone, George Tilman, John Hen- 
derson, John Stanford, and Edmund Byne. 

In October, 1800, the Association met at Sardis, Wilkes coun- 
ty; Rev. Mr. Heflin delivered the introductory sermon, from 
2 Corinthians, iv. 5, " For we preach not ourselves, but Christ 
Jesus the Lord ; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake." Rev. 
Sanders Walker presided as moderator, and Rev. Jesse Mercer 
acted as clerk. The church newly constituted at Poplar spring, 
Columbia county, was received at this meeting, and the Cloud's 
creek church was dismissed to join the Sarepta Association. 
At the request of the Sarepta brethren, the time of the annual 
meeting was changed to the Saturday preceding the second 
Lord's Day in October of each year. 

At this session the following interesting resolution was 
adopted, viz: "That as a spirit of itinerancy has inflamed the 
minds of several ministers, who are desirous to enter into 
some resolutions, suitable to carry into effect a design of trav- 
eling and preaching the gospel, a meeting be, and is hereby 
appointed, at Powel's creek, on Friday before the first Sunday 
in May next, for that purpose; that the same day be observed 
as a day of fasting and solemn prayer to Almighty God, for 
prosperity on the design, and for a dispensation of every new 
covenant mercy in Christ Jesus." 

It must be highly gratifying to that part of those old breth- 
ren yet living, who entered into this resolution, to look back 



Georgia Association. 63 

and see how the blessing of the Lord has followed upon these 
labors of love and faith. It is true they may have sown in 
tears, but they have reaped in joy a copious harvest. 

The meeting of the body in October, 1801, was held with the 
church at Williams' creek, Warren county. Two new churches 
were received at this session, Newhope, Jackson county, and 
Big creek, Oglethorpe county. A proposition was received 
from the Philadelphia Association, to form "a general confer- 
ence, to be composed of one or more members from each Asso- 
ciation in the United States." Bat the body, from prudential 
considerations, fbrebore to express an opinion upon the subject 
at that time. The churches on Horn's creek and Stephen's 
creek, South Carolina, took letters of dismission, to join the 
Bethel Association, it being more convenient to them. 

A letter was addressed to the body this year from the meet- 
ing at Powelton, held in May preceding, "which called the 
attention of the Association to the propriety and expediency of 
forming a missionary society in this State, for the purpose of 
sending the gospel amongst the Indians bordering on our fron- 
tiers, which was unanimously and cordially approbated." The 
ministers of those times had too much of the spirit of the 
apostles in them, to be afraid of missions. Jt is j)resumed that 
a resolution of this sort at the present, would be styled in some 
places by way of derision, a new measure — man's toork — a ivool- 
gathering business! Let those who call themselves "old side 
folks," consider this. The meeting adjourned to meet again at 
Salem, Oglethorpe county, on the 9th of October, 1802. 

At the Salem Association, Bev. Mr. Marshall delivered the 
introductory discourse, from Isaiah Ixii. 6, 7; u I have set watch- 
men upon thy walls, Jerusalem" etc. Bev. Mr. Marshall was 
chosen moderator, and Jesse Mercer, clerk. 

At the meeting of the Powelton conference the foregoing 
May, upon the subject of an Indian mission, "it was proposed 
that a general committee of the Georgia Baptists should be 
formed, consisting of three members from each Association in 
the State, the leading object of which should be, to meet and 
confer with other christian societies, in order to remove differ- 
ences, and if possible, bring about a more general and close 
union among real christians on the principles of eternal truth." 



64 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

This being approved, the Eev. Messrs. Marshall, Walker and 
Mercer, were appointed to meet that committee at Powelton, 
on Saturday before the first Sabbath in May next ensuing. 
This looks very much like a Convention, and if the good sense 
and piety of those times had permitted, no doubt it would have 
been opposed as such. 

In looking over the returns made by the several churches, 
Ave conclude there must have been a considerable revival dur- 
* ing the last associational year. Seven hundred and thirty-two 
were returned as the whole number baptized, of which the 
African church in Augusta reported two hundred and twenty- 
Big creek, Oglethorpe, eighty-eight; County-line, Wilkes, twenty- 
three; Salem, Oglethorpe, twenty-six; Whatley's mill, Greene, 
(now Bethesda) forty-nine; Freeman's creek, Clark, fifty-six; 
Lower Beaverdam, Greene, twenty-eight; Philip's mill, Wilkes, 
thirty-eight; Powel's creek, Hancock, twenty -nine; Eoeky 
Spring, Lincoln, thirty-one; Sardis, Wilkes, thirty-three; be- 
sides respectable numbers from several other churches. 

The meeting of the body in 1803 was held with the church 
at Whatley's mill, Greene county. The introductory discourse 
was delivered by Jesse Mercer, from Solomon's Songs iv. 15, 
" A fountain of gardens." The same officers who acted the year 
before were retained. 

The churches at Double Branches, Lincoln county, and Bethel, 
Hancock county, recently constituted, applied for membership 
and were received. The ministers present from other bodies 
this year were the Eev. Joel Willis, from Hephzibah, and Eev. 
John Cleveland, from the Sarepta Association ; letters and 
minutes were received from the Charleston and Bethel, but no 
messengers. Also a letter on the subject of revivals, originally 
addressed to the churches of the Eoanoke Association, Virginia, 
detailing an account of a most gracious work amongst those 
churches. An address, too, was read from the General Com- 
mittee of the Missionary Conference at Powelton, and the Asso- 
ciation concurring in its leading objects, a delegation consisting 
of Eevs. Marshall, Walker and Mercer was again appointed 
to meet that committee. The last Saturday of April ensuing 
was appointed as a day of fasting and prayer for this commit- 
tee — " that it be guarded from errors on the one hand, and di- 



Georgia Association. 65 

rected to objects the most proper aDd useful on the other." 
General meetings were appointed at various places ; and it was 
agreed that "if orderly ministers of other denominations should 
attend any, they should be treated with respect, provided they 
make themselves known. The number baptized this year was 
six hundred and eighty-nine ; the whole number in connection 
was three thousand three hundred and forty-five. There were 
fourteen ordained ministers and seven licentiates. The min- 
utes of this session appear not to have been printed until early in 
the year 1804, to which the clerk appended the following ar- 
ticle : " Doubtlessly there is a glorious revival of the religion 
of Jesus. The wicked of every description have been despoiled 
of their boasted coat of mail ; even deists, who stood in the 
front of the battle, have had their right arm broken, their hope 
disappointed, and their prognostications metamorphosed into 
falsehoods. As the fruit of this work, there have been added 
to the churches of the Georgia Association more than fourteen 
hundred. To those of Sarepta, more than one thousand, a year 
ago; we doubt not but that number has greatly increased by 
this time. To those of Bethel more than two thousand. There 
is, and continues, a great work in some of the churches of Heph- 
zibah and Savannah, and is kindling in others. More than one 
hundred have been added to one church of the Charleston As- 
sociation. We are authorized to say, that in six Associations 
in Kentucky there are at least ten thousand young converts. 
To all which we add, that the accounts from different and dis- 
tant parts, verbally received, state that the Lord is doing ex- 
cellent things in the earth. O most mighty Jesus, ride pros- 
perously because of truth, meekness and righteousness; and thy 
right hand shall teach thee terrible things. Thy kingdom 
come! come! come!" 

The session of the Association in October, 1813, was held 
with the church on Fishing creek, Wilkes county. Mr. Khodes 
being absent in consequence of indisposition, Eev. Mr. Mercer 
delivered the introductory sermon, from Genesis xxiv. 56, " Send 
me away, that I may go to my master" Mr. Marshall and Mr. 
Mercer were continued as moderator and clerk of the body. 

The cloud of war still hanging over the land, on motion, a 
committee consisting of the clerk, Lumpkin, Eabun and Brown, 
5 



66 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

was appointed to draw up an article expressive of the sense of 
the Association on the subject. The article reads as follows : 
" The article to be drawn up, expressive of our sense of the 
political state of our nation, was presented, and after being read 
several times, was adopted without dissent. It stands thus : 
' That however unusual it may be for us, as a religious body, 
to intermeddle with the political concerns of our country, yet, 
at this momentous crisis, when our vital interests are jeopard- 
ized, to remain silent would indicate a criminal indifference. 
We, therefore, in this public and solemn manner, take the lib- 
erty of saying that we have long viewed with emotions of in- 
dignation and horror the many lawless aggressions committed 
on the persons, rights and property of the people of these 
United States, by the corrupt, arbitrary and despotic govern- 
ment of Great Britain and its emissaries. And as it has been 
found necessary to resist such wanton and cruel outrages by 
opposing force to force : Resolved unanimously, That it is the 
opinion of this Association that the war so waged against Great 
Britain is just, necessary and indispensable — and, as we con- 
sider everything dear to us and to our country involved in its 
issue, we solemnly pledge ourselves to the government of our 
choice, that we will by all the means in our power aid in its 
prosecution, until it shall be brought to an honorable termina- 
tion. And we also exhort and admonish particularly the 
churches belonging to our connection, and brethren and friends 
in general, to take into consideration the command of our Lord 
by his apostle, ' To be subject to the powers ordained of Ood over 
us, } and to be jointly united in the common cause of liberty and 
independence — to be examples to all within their reach, by a 
peaceable and quiet endurance of the privations and afflic- 
tions of the present war ; by a promptness to defend their vio- 
lated rights when called on to personal service ; and by a cheer- 
fulness in meeting the accumulated, though indispensable ex- 
penses thereof; in all things showing themselves the real friends 
of liberty and religion, by bringing all their energies to bear on 
the measures of the government, thereby the more speedily 
(under God,) to bring about a happy termination of these -ca- 
lamities by the restoration of an honorable and lasting peace. 
And for that purpose we further exhort them to let their united 



Georgia Association. 67 

supplications ascend to the Lord of Hosts, that he would gra- 
ciously preside over the councils of our nation, be our sun and 
shield, and cover our armies and navies in the day of battle.' " 

The next session of the body was held at Powelton, Han- 
cock county, October 8th, 1814, and the three days succeeding. 
Rev. Mr. Mathews, who had been appointed to open the ser- 
vices, being absent, the Rev. Mr. Davis supplied his place. The 
officers of the. last year were continued. 

On account of the low state of religion, and the calamitous 
state of the nation by reason of war, the second Thursday in 
December, the 18th of June, and the 24th of August, next after 
the Association, were' set apart as days of humiliation and 
prayer. The ninth article of the minutes of this session, 
breathes so excellent a spirit upon the subject of missions, we 
cannot withhold it from the reader. It is as follows: "Ac- 
cording to a suggestion in the letter from the Whatley's mill 
church, brother Mercer presented and read the circular and 
constitution of the ' Savannah Babtist Society for Foreign 
Missions,' and then moved for the approbation of the Associa- 
tion, Avhich was given most willingly and unanimously — where- 
upon it was thought proper to recommend the subject for its 
evident importance, to the consideration of the churches. And 
Friday before the first Sabbath in May next, was named as a 
day on which all who were individually disposed, as well of other 
Associations as our own, might meet at Powelton, in Hancock 
county, to form a society and digest a plan to aid in the glori- 
ous effort to evangelize the poor heathen in idolatrous lands." 

The spirit of missions thus manifested has been increasing in 
this body ever since, as we shall see as we pass on. 

In 1815, the Association met at Long creek, Warren county. 
The introductory discourse was delivered by Rev. Mr. Math- 
ews, from Romans xii. 2 : " Be not comformed to this world" etc. 
Rev. Mr. Marshall was appointed the moderator, and Mr. Brown 
the clerk. 

We insert, verbatim, the seventh, tenth and fifteenth articles 
of the minutes of this session, as indicative of the state of feel- 
ing which pervaded the body on the subject of missions and 
other matters of general utility. The seventh article reads as 
follows: "Received from the Baptist Board of Foreign Mis- 



C8 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

sions for the United States, through its agent, Ecv. Luther 
Rico, the report of the board, accompanied by letters desiring 
the aid of this body in their laudable exertions to spread the Gos- 
pel of Christ among the heathen in idolatrous lands. The Asso- 
ciation unanimously agreed to co-operate in the grand design, 
and the more effectually to do so, resolved itself into a body 
for missionary purposes ; and appointed the brethren Mercer, 
Thompson, Eoberts, Eabun and Brown, a committee to digest 
rules for its regulation ; to send a circular address to the churches 
in our connection relative to the subject; and to hold corres- 
pondence with the corresponding secretary of the Board of 
Foreign Missions agreeably to request." 

The Georgia Association was thus, in the year 1815, resolved 
into a missionary society. How has it then happened, that no 
complaint was ever heard of her proceedings in this respect, 
till she became connected with the General Association, or, what 
is now styled the Convention The Association at that time 
proposed to co-operate with the Board of Foreign Missions; the 
Convention is only an enlargement of the plan of operations; 
other bodies, and other societies entering into the plan, in order 
to prosecute more successfully the great design. 

The following article speaks well, not only for the Associa- 
tion, but for the presbytery with which they were to act for the 
suppression of vice and immorality: " Eeceived a letter from 
the committee of the Hopewell Presbytery, requesting the ap- 
pointment of some of this body, to meet in a General Associa- 
tion of the different denominations, to be assembled at Athens, 
Tuesday before the Commencement in 1816, to combine their 
efforts to promote morality and virtue, as well as religion. The 
brethren A. Marshall and E. Shackelford are appointed a com- 
mittee for that purpose." 

The articles that follow show a spirit of dependence upon 
the Author of all good for his blessings 

" It is recommended that the 31st day of December next be 
kept by the churches as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer, 
in consideration of the low T ebb of vital religion. Let us, breth- 
ren, duly observe the day, by a prompt attendance at our plaees 
of worship — in solemn assembly — to confess our sins, mourn 



Georgia Association. 69 

over afflicted Zion, and implore Almighty God to pour out his 
Spirit upon us." 

In October, 1818, the session was held with the church at 
Powelton, Hancock county. Rev. Mr. Eeeves preached the 
introductory sermon from Psalm xc. 16, 17: u Let thy work ap- 
pear unto thy servants, and thy glory unto their children : And let 
the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us" 

The spirit of missions was rapidly on the advance in the 
body at this time, as will appear from the following extracts, 
taken from the minutes: "Received with pleasure, two circu- 
lar addresses from the secretary of the Baptist Board for For- 
eign Missions in the United States. One containing a very 
flattering account of the prosperity of the mission cause gen- 
erally—the other detailing their views respecting the estab- 
lishment of a seminary for the education of candidates for the 
ministry. Our best wishes attend their laudable efforts." 

"Received a communication from the secretary of the Ken- 
tucky Mission Society, inviting our co-operation in the estab- 
lishment of a school in that State, for the education of the 
youth of both sexes, belonging to such of the neighboring In- 
dian tribes, as may be disposed to avail themselves of the oppor- 
tunity. The subject was taken up and considered by the Asso- 
ciation as a beautiful theory, but very doubtful in practice. The 
moderator was instructed to communicate our disapprobation 
of the plan proposed." 

"The mission board, having closed their proceedings for the 
year past, made the following report, which was read and ap- 
proved : 

The Georgia Association Board, for foreign and domestic 
missions, to the Association of which it is the board, report : 

That on their appointment they received $260 87£, of which 
sum they forwarded $143 00 to the treasurer of the general 
board, leaving a balance of $117 87J, which is now let out on 
interest, being under an impression that it was best to economize, 
and begin with such sum as would enable the board to increase 
their appropriations as circumstances might require and their 
funds justify. Early in the spring they addressed letters to all 
the ministers of the churches in your bounds, with a view "to 
stir up their pure minds by way of remembrance to ' this 



70 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

grace ;' " and the result is manifest in the good returns made 
to this session from the churches. The work in which the 
general board is engaged is confessedly great and of the first 
magnitude ; especially as it combines the domestic with the 
foreign mission. The evangelizing of our own Indians is alone 
the broad work of ages. We invite the Association to inspect 
the moral state of the heathen in our own country, and ask, 
that if they had been taught to cheat, steal, lie and swear, by 
men called christians, does it not prove they can, and that it is 
a shame they have not been a long time ago taught the fear of 
God, the sin and Saviour of man, and also to pray! If every- 
where on the face of the globe multitudes are perishing for 
lack of knowledge, like a harvest waving with more than golden 
ripeness, may it not be asked, with surprise, why we have been 
idle so long? We say, then, in the words of the report of the 
board of the Powelton Mission Society, " The obligations of 
christians to effectuate the great command are original and of 
the most binding force. The enlistment is during the service. 
The missionary fervor then should be vivid, firm and constant, 
and the efforts vigorous, prompt and perpetual." Will you, as 
invited by the Saviour, lift up your eyes on the fields and be- 
hold them white nigh unto harvest! And pray the Lord of the 
harvest to send more laborers into his harvest. In this senti- 
ment the board most cordially unite and say, " Thy kingdom 
come ! thy will be done ! As in heaven, so on earth ; for thine, 
O Lord, is the kingdom and power, and thine be the glory for- 
ever. Amen !" 

In 1820, the body had occasion to mourn the death of Wil- 
liam Eabun, distinguished alike in church and State. The 
year following, a resolution was passed to form a General Asso- 
ciation, to be composed of such associations in the State as 
should deem it proper to enter into such an organization. In 
1822, in connection with difficulties in Williams' creek church, 
Rev. Thomas Rhodes is noticed as a disorderly man, and the 
part of that church which refused connection with saidKhodes 
is declared the true Williams' creek church. In 1825-6, etc., the 
bod} 7 was efficiently engaged in promoting missions among the 
Indians at home and the heathen abroad, and education (theo- 
logical) in assisting to rear up the Columbian College, District 



Sarepta Association. 71 

Of Columbia. In 1827-8, this body, with others in the interior, 
enjoyed a season of great refreshing from the presence of the 
Lord. Thousands were added to the churches. The cause of 
benevolence grew in favor with the people, and their charities 
were greatly enlarged. Sabbath-schools and Bible classes began 
to attract much attention and were generally encouraged. In- 
deed, it may be remarked here, that efforts for improving the 
world and the church have never met with such opposition in 
this Association as in others in the State. The reason of this, 
it is believed, is that the ministry has been more intelligent, if 
not more pious. 

At the session in 1832, letters were received from the Ocmul- 
gee and Flint River Associations, touching certain matters 
of difficulty existing between those bodies and the Georgia As- 
sociation. A letter was also received from four seceding 
churches from the Flint River Association on the same subject. 
As the nature of these difficulties is fully set forth in the his- 
tory of the Georgia and of the Central Association, already 
published, it is thought inexpedient to go into detail here. 
The case of the Eatonton church in the Ocmulgee, and of the 
Sharon and Tenian churches in the Flint river, were the main, 
matters. The Ocmulgee dropped correspondence with the 
Georgia and has never renewed it. The Flint also dropped for 
a few years, but renewed it soon after the division in her own 
ranks, which resulted in the formation of the Primitive Towa- 
laga. 

For a more particular account of this body, the reader is re- 
ferred to "Mercer's History." 

SAREPTA ASSOCIATION. 

In May, 1799, the brethren met at Shoal creek, Franklin 
county, to confer about forming a new Association, having al- 
ready obtained letters of dismission for several churches from 
the Georgia Association. In the fall, they met again at Vans' 
creek, Elbert county, and formed the Sarepta Association, by 
adopting the. constitution and decorum of the Georgia, to whose 
next session they sent as messengers William Davis and G. 
Smith. The minutes of the first session are not preserved. 



72 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

The churches -which were dismissed from the Georgia and 
joined in the Sarepta, are Shoal creek, Yans' creek, Dove's- creek, 
Hollow Spring, Cabin creek, Nail's creek, Millstone and Trail 
creek. On 12th October, 1800, the body met at Millstone, 
Oglethorpe county — Thomas Gilbert, moderator, and William 
Davis, clerk. Five churches joined — fourteen churches in the 
Union — one hundred and seventy baptized. Total, seven hun- 
dred and ninety-seven. In 1801, at Shoal creek. In 1802, at 
Cabin creek — sermon by Dozier Thornton — eight new churches 
joined. In 1803, at [Cloud's creek — introductory by William 
Denman — eight new churches joined this year also. The body 
now had in union thirty-three churches — baptized three hun- 
dred and seventy-five. Total, two thousand eight hundred and 
seventy-three — a great increase this in three years ! 

In 1804, Falling creek church, in Elbert, entertains the body. 
D. Thornton and William Davis, officers. Eeceived a commu- 
nication from General Committee of Correspondence, in Penn- 
sylvania, requesting religious statistics — appointed a committee 
to furnish them. For several years the progress and increase 
of the body was about the same as above. Nothing material 
occurs until 1812, when a great revival was experienced, and 
twelve hundred and sixty-five were baptized. Total, three 
thousand one hundred and fifty-seven. " So mightily grew the 
word of the Lord and prevailed." 

In 1815 the Hopewell Presbytery requests its co-operation in 
attempting to arrest prevailing vices. A committee is ap- 
pointed to meet one from the Presbytery. It is understood 
they did not agree touching the sanctity of the Sabbath, and 
so nothing definite was settled as a plan to suppress vice. 

Falling creek was the seat of the session in 1816. Appointed 
the Sarepta Mission Society to meet at Double Branches. This 
society was in active operation some dozen years ; missionaries 
went among the Cherokee Indians and preached the gospel ; 
some schools were sustained by it. Thomas Johnson, Littleton 
Meeks and John Sandidge were among the preachers. Several 
churches were dismissed to form the Tugalo Association. 

Several sessions pass off as usual, when, in 1820, a powerful 
excitement is felt in the meeting at Vans' creek, under the 
ministry of M. Peeves, J. M. Gray and J. Mercer; several had 



Hephzibah Association. 73 

what is called "the jerks." Resolution passed : "Resolved, That 
we suggest for our own consideration, and respectfully that of 
sister associations in the State, the propriety of organizing a 
general meeting of correspondence" This was drawn by Rev. A. 
Sherwood and handed in by C. J. Jenkins. Here is the com- 
mencement of the State Convention, which has been an instru- 
ment of so much good. The circular for this year was on "the 
religious education of children," of which the Charleston As- 
sociation expresses its cordial approbation at its ensuing session. 

No material change occurs in the affairs of the union until 
about 1830, when the importance of domestic missions begins to 
be felt by the body. Several itinerants are henceforth engaged 
in spreading abroad the good tidings, and many poor ministers 
have libraries purchased for them. 

In 1835, the session is at Falling creek, Elbert county. The 
body votes to join the State Convention, after fifteen years 1 con- 
sideration. About $420 00 in hand for benevolent objects. An 
executive committee manages the fiscal concerns. In 183G, 
opens correspondence with the Central Association. Five or 
six churches (with George Lumpkin and John Lacy, ministers,) 
enter their protest against uniting with the Convention and 
corresponding with the Central Association. These withdraw, 
and form what is called " The Oconee Association." 

For several years past, up to 1845, the affairs of the body 
have progressed without any material variation. Domestic and 
foreign missions, Sabbath-schools, temperance societies, all re- 
ceive the hearty encouragement of the churches. Her min- 
isters appear to take pleasure in every good word and work. 

HEPHZIBAH ASSOCIATION. 

This body was formed of churches dismissed from the Georgia 
in 1794. Neither the month, nor place, nor presbytery, can be 
ascertained, for the records of the Georgia and of this are both 
lost. The churches are in the counties of Burke, Screven, Jef- 
ferson, Richmond, Warren, etc. In 1803, George Franklin was 
moderator and Norvel Robertson, clerk. A circular. from the 
General Committee, formed at Powelton, was received and its 
measures approved. Churches, twenty-two ; baptized, three 



74 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

hundred and six — total, eleven hundred and thirty-two. In 
1804. Franklin, Boss and Tharpe were appointed delegates to 
" the General Committee" at Powelton. In 1806 is found this 
query and answer : 

Q. — Where ought the saints' feet to be washed ? 

A. — In the church, after the Lord's Supper. 

Several sessions pass off in the usual manner. In 1815, C. 
Bateman is chosen to itinerate in Montgomery and contiguous 
counties. Received a corresponding letter from Baptist Board 
of Foreign Missions. Agreed to do more for domestic missions, 
and a meeting is appointed at Bark Camp to organize a society 
for this object. In 1816, received a letter and messengers from 
the " Hephzibah Mission Society," and passed a vote wishing 
them prosperity. Voted $100 00 to brother Bateman, (he af- 
terwards became a violent anti-missionary,) for services as do- 
mestic missionary last year, and expressed gratification at the 
reception of a letter from the secretary of the General Con- 
eral Convention. 

In 1818, the body expresses itself favorable towards the Gen- ( 
eral Baptist Convention. Expecting to engage in domestic 
missions and contribute a mite towards foreign, it cannot 
promise aid to the Kentucky Mission Society, from which a 
letter had been received. In 1819, this body resolves " to take 
no part in the missionary cause." Agreed not to correspond 
with the Foreign Mission Society! 

In 1823 Jordan Smith is moderator. Appropriated $86 00 to 
corresponding messengers. In 1826, rejected the request of 
Buck-head and Brushy creek churches to send messengers to 
view the order of the General Association of this State. The 
decorum was altered so as to make it disorder for any brother 
to move for a correspondence, either by letter or messenger, 
with any general association or committee, missionary society 
or board ! Such disorder to be reproved by the moderator ! 
The anti-mission party seem now to be dominant. Some of 
the ministers of that party were James Granade, (excommuni- 
cated for immorality,) Jordan Smith and John Blackstone. 

The session for 1828 was at Little Brier creek, Warren 
county. The missionary party have regained the ascendancy* 
and Jordan Smith, James Gray and others withdraw and form 



Savannah River Association. 75 

the Canoochie Association, (anti-missionary,) which holds no 
correspondence with other bodies. Several churches get letters 
to form the Washington Association, viz : Beulah, Darien, Beth- 
lehem, Sisters' meeting-house, Jackson's meeting-house, etc. 
In 1832, recommended the churches to take collections for itin- 
erants — three chosen, McCall, Maund and Polhill. 

At the session for 1834, William L. Tucker, from the Georgia 
Convention, is invited to a seat. Reports from domestic mis- 
sionaries received, and appointed five more. Paid missionaries 
$140 00 ; $252 93 in hand. Ministers now in the body are J. H. 
T. Kilpatrick, TV. W. Maund, Joseph Polhill, O. Smith, J. Moon, 
J. Huff, M. D. Holsonback, etc. 

In 1836 the body met at Providence church, in Jefferson 
county. According to previous understanding, the churches 
reported in favor of becoming a component member of the Bap- 
tist State Convention by a large majority, only five voting 
against this measure. In 1837 a collection was taken for Jud- 
son's Burman Bible, amounting to $78 20. Domestic mission 
fund, $356 38. The body now seems to be hearty and active 
in every good work. The shackles of anti-ism are broken off. 

Their progress up to 1874 is still onward! 



SAYANNAH RIYER ASSOCIATION. 

This, union was at first called Savannah Association, and was 
formed in Savannah, in April, 1802, of Savannah, Newington 
and two colored churches of the city. Henry Holcombe was 
moderator and Elias Robert, clerk. Thomas Polhill and John 
Godwin were delegates from Newington, and Andrew Bryan, 
Evan Grant and H. Cunningham, colored preachers. 

In January, 1803, the session was held in Savannah, and 
seven churches admitted, all from South Carolina, except Ogee- 
chee, a church of colored persons. Holcombe, Tison and Pol- 
hill were appointed to meet the " General Committee " at Pow- 
elton. 

In 1804, fifteen churches ; three hundred and seventy-eight 
baptized ; total, one thousand seven hundred and thirty. In 
November, 1805, the session was at Black Swamp, South Caro- 
lina. Alexander Scott, moderator, Joseph Clay, clerk. Ap- 



76 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

proved the measures of the " General Committee " concerning 
a Baptist college. Sand-hill church (now Power's meeting- 
house,) admitted as a member. In 1806 it was decided, in an- 
swer to a query from Beaufort church, that feet washing is not 
an ordinance. The Sunbury church joined. 

In 1808 there were three hundred and sixty-two baptized ; 
increase, one thousand one hundred and twelve ; total, five 
thousand six hundred and eighty-eight. In 1812, Sunbury en- 
tertains the Association, which regrets the death of Andrew 
Bryan, a colored preacher of great worth. C. 0. Screven and 
W. T. Brantly, officers. William B. Johnson is requested to 
write the next circular letter on the importance of itinerant 
and missionary effort. One thousand four hundred and ninety- 
two baptized. 

The session in 1813 was at Union, South Carolina. Luther 
Hice, having just returned from India, was present. A general 
committee on missions is formed : W. B. Johnson, president ;' 
Thomas Williams, secretary. Three hundred and thirty-seven 
dollars in hand. This is the first move in missions since about 
1807, or since the general committee was dissolved. 

For several years the progress of the body was pretty uni- 
form, until 1817, at Newington, it was agreed to divide the 
body, the Savannah river to be the line; and in November, 
1818, the churches on the Georgia side united in the Sunbury 
Association, at Sunbury. The general committee of the Asso- 
ciation report several domestic missionaries engaged in itin- 
erant preaching. The following answer is given to a query : 
" That as a member is received into a church by general con- 
sent, so none has a right to leave it without general consent ; 
otherwise he despises the church, breaks fellowship, and should 
be dealt with," etc. 



OCMULGEE ASSOCIATION 

Was formed at Booty creek meeting-house, November 10th, 
1810, of twenty-four churches, by a committee from the 'Geor- 
gia Association, consisting of Robertson, Matthews, Shackel- 
ford, Thompson and McGinty. These twenty-four churches are 
not known exactly, as the old minutes are not accessible. 



Ocmulgee Association, 77 

In 1812, the session is at Shoal creek, Jasper county. Joseph 
Baker and William Williams, officers. Eev. F. Flournoy had 
been impeached before the Senate, and a committee was ap- 
pointed to examine into the matter, who reported, "He is still 
held by us an orderly christian and faithful minister." The 
circular for this year alludes to the war, and urges the exercise 
of true patriotism. In 1813, six churches were dismissed to form 
the Ebenezer Association. 

The session for 1815 is at Fellowship, near Madison. Elijah 
Mosley preached from the commission. Churches forty-one; 
ordained and licensed peeachers, twenty-five; baptized, seven- 
ty-six — total, two thousand two hundred and sixty-six. 

For 1817, the session was at Elim, near Clinton. The circu- 
lar, "on the sin of drunkenness," by L. Battle, is a good pro- 
duction. In 1819, in answer to a query, the body replies: 
"Masters should treat them (slaves) with humanity and justice, 
(Ephesians, vi. 9, Colossians, iv. 1,) and we recommend the mem- 
bers of our churches to watch over each other, and if any 
should treat them otherwise, that they be dealt with as trans- 
gressors." This is the universal sentiment among christians 
in Georgia. F. Flournoy is appointed an agent to visit the 
Creek Nation of Indians and solicit a site for a school. A com- 
mittee to form a plan for a school was appointed, as follows: 
E. Mosely, A. Davis, E. Talbot and Pitt Milner. 

In 1820, the plan for a school in the Creek Nation (to be con- 
ducted by this, and the Georgia and Ebenezer Associations,) was 
adopted and spread upon the minutes. Trustees, B. Wilson, 
A. Davis, B. II. Willson, W. Williams and Wilson Lumpkin, 
afterwards Governor of the State. In 1821, the body votes a 
cordial concurrence with the Sarepta touching "general meeting 
of correspondence," and B. McGinty, J. M. Gray, and C. White 
appointed delegates. 

September, 1822, the session is at Mount Gilead, Jasper county. 
The report on Indian reform was read: F. Flournoy had re- 
signed as superintendent, and L. Compere was appointed. On 
a proposition of the Ocmulgee Missionary Society, that body 
is consolidated with the Association, and it annually elects 
seven trustees. For missions in hand, $445, 87J. The constitu- 
tion of the General Association is taken into consideration, 



78 Georgia Baptists — Historical, 

(l examined artiele by article, and unanimously approved." Five 
delegates appointed: J. Milner, C. White, J. M. Gray, William 
Williams and A. Davis. 

Ten newly constituted churches join the session at Fellow- 
ship in 1823. Churches, fifty-five ; members, two thousand five 
hundred and two. Mission funds sent up by churches, $318,18 
After considering the need of preaching in the new counties, 
sixteen ministers agree to spend some weeks in proclaining the 
Saviour among the new settlements. 

Murder creek church, Jasper county, entertained the session 
of 1824. The mission school at Withington, in the Creek Na- 
tion, is in a prosperous condition — forty-two pupils in it, mak- 
ing rapid improvement. Mission moneys sent up, about $280. 
Several churches dismissed, to form Flint river and Yellow 
river Associations. The care and management of missions 
were transferred to the General Association of the State, by 
the session of 1825. The circular for 1826 was written by 
Thomas Cooper, and unanimously adopted. An able produc- 
tion ! 

The session for 1827, at Antioch, Morgan county, will never be 
forgotten. Brethren Coiley, Sherwood and Shannon preached 
on the Sabbath. Great excitement prevailed; — hundreds upon 
hundreds were crying for mercy — thousands were powerfully 
awakened! The oldest ministers never witnessed such a'scene 
before ! Several churches petitioned to withdraw from General 
Association — petitions laid over. Opposition to missions begins 
to be pretty plainly developed, which wrought great confusion 
and mischief afterwards. v 

The revival spread from this into the Flint Eiver and other 
Associations. 

Hephzibah, in Jasper county, is the place of meeting in 1828. 
Baptized, one thousand seven hundred and seventy-two; total, 
three thousand four hundred and fifty-five. At the session at 
Shiloh, the following year, the subject of withdrawing from the 
General Association was again discussed. But it was not until 
1830, at Harmony, in Putnam, that this sad event took place. 
Contention and division follow this step, and a mournful decline 
is the consequence. The body withdraws from Bethlehem church 
on account of opposition to her minister, Gyrus White. New 



Ocmulgee (Junior) and JEbenezer Associations. 

Salem church had brought charges against Eatonton ; the case 
is in an unsettled state in 1831 and 1832 ; and in 1833, at Elim, 
in Jones, the Association withdraws from Eatonton church 
likewise. The sessions of those years were exceedingly conten- 
tious. So, also, of several following years — 1834 and 1835. At 
Concord, in Jasper, the body declares, " Non-fellowship with all 
benevolent societies," or rather approves of the act as done by 
Mount Gilead church. In the meantime, many churches had 
seceded from the body, and formed the Central Association. 
Some of these were among the most flourishing and intelligent 
churches in the union. In 1837, she declares the institutions of 
the day "unscriptural." 

In ten years, (from 1820 to 1830,) four thousand eight hun- 
dred and nineteen were baptized. Look at the contrast: In 
1830, when she left the Convention, she had forty-one churches 
and three thousand four hundred and sixty-one members. Now, 
1844, she has four ministers and nine hundred and seven .mem- 
bers. Baptized twenty-eight. "How are the mighty fallen ! " 

OCMULGEE (JUNIOR) ASSOCIATION. 

As the small party which left the Ocmulgee Association in 
1839 claims to be the true and original body, we use the word 
junior merely to distinguish between the two. This body as- 
sembled, it is presumed, for its second meeting, at Elim, in Jones 
county, the 11th September, 1840. T. D. Oxford preached the 
introductory sermon, was moderator, preached on the Sabbath — 
indeed, was the only minister belonging to the concern. Letters 
from three churches were read — two others join — five churches 
in all. Four baptized, nineteen excluded, forty-one dismissed, 
one minister, and three hundred and nineteen members. The 
body has no correspondence with other Associations, and very 
little is known of its history of late years. 

EBENEZER ASSOCIATION 

Was formed in March, 1814, of churches chiefly from the 
Hepzibah and Ocmulgee. The minutes of a session held in Au- 
gust of the same year are printed : Thirteen churches ; nine 



80 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

baptized — total, five hundred and seventy-five. The presby- 
tery from the Ocmulgee were Joseph Baker, Y. A. Tharpe, D. 
Wood, II. Hootcn and E. Talbot. Fulgam and Taylor, officers. 

Circular letter by Love. Churches dismissed by the Oc- 

mulgce to form the Ebcnezer were Mount Nebo, New Provi- 
dence, Bam ah and Trail Branch. 

The session for November, 1836, was at Mount Horeb. Dozier 
Thornton, Jesse Mercer and Luther Rice were present, and 
preached on Sabbath. Opened correspondence with Baptist 
General Convention. In 1817, at Wood's meeting-house, voted 
to stop correspondence with the General Convention. Agreed 
to appropriate the surplus funds in hand to itinerant preaching 
in lower parts of the State. Baptized eighteen. Two new 
constitutions joined — Camp Creek and Antioch. 

In 1818, at New Providence, agreed to resume correspond- 
ence with the General Convention. Eeceived circular from 
Kentucky Mission Society. Appropriated $50 00 for expenses 
of corresponding messengers. The minutes show twenty-one 
churches, thirty-two baptized, eight hundred and seventy-six 
members. In 1819 the session is at Rocky creek. Introduc- 
tory sermon by Eden Taylor. Y. A. Tharpe and Ezekiel Taylor 
were officers. A committee is appointed to co-operate with one 
from Ocmulgee Association in making arrangements for Indian 
reform. For corresponding messengers, $58 00. 

At Hainan, in 1820, agreed to concur in the plan for Indian 
reform. Appointed trustees and ministers are requested to 
explain this matter to the churches and suggest plans to raise 
funds. The institution to educate young ministers, suggested 
by the General Convention, was under consideration. "We 
are of opinion that such an institution appears laudable, but 
are not prepared at present to go into it." Twenty-five churches, 
and fifty-six baptized. Circular letter, on ministerial support, 
by brother Fulgam — an excellent article. In 1821, at Myrtle 
Spring, John Ross preached the introductory sermon. The- 
ophilus Pearce and John McKinzy officers. Adam Jones, 
Thomas Glenn and Joseph Sharpe, trustees for Indian reform, 
in connection with committees from Ocmulgee and Georgia As- 
sociations. Churches twenty-eight, baptized thirty-eight ; total, 
one thousand and eighty-five. Brother McKinzy wrote circular 



Ebenezer Association. 81 

" On the Universal Spread of the Gospel." The importance of 
exertion in this cause, and of translating the Bible, urged with 
clearness and warmth. All this by Rev. John McKinzy!* 

The church at Mount Horeb provided for the Association in 
1822. Read the report of Indian reform. Unanimously agreed 
to aid in the laudable pursuit. "Resolved, That brother Com- 
pere, missionary for Indian reform, be invited to take a tour of 
preaching through our bounds and solicit contributions for that 
purpose." The subject of uniting with the General Association 
of Georgia is laid over until next year. Next year, in 1823, at 
Stone creek, tl Took under consideration the reference of last 
year relative to the General Association, which was thrown under 
the table !" "Took under consideration the Indian reform, as 
to whether we continue or discontinue, and it was discontin- 
ued ! Preachers on the Sabbath were Perryman, Hooten and 
Blackstone. Churches twenty-eight, baptized sixty-seven, mem- 
bers one thousand and forty-eight. 

Cool Spring church entertains the session of 1824. Agreed 
to continue correspondence with the General Convention. 
Moved to reconsider minutes of last year in relation to Indian 
reform — lost ! Moved to correspond with the General Associa- 
tion — lost ! Circular letter on practical duties, by Taylor. 

Nothing of interest is recorded in the minutes of 1825 at 
Rocky creek. In 1827 resolutions were passed lamenting the 
death of Tharp and Pearce, formerly moderators of this body. 
Circular on brotherly love by J. McKinzy. 

Trail branch is the seat of the session in 1828. Circular by 
C. A. Tharp, on "If thou put thy brethren in remembrance of 
these things," etc. Nine impostors are advertised, among them 
the famous Counsellor or Counsel, who has imposed on the 
churches near thirty years. The great revival which was then 
in progress in the Ocmulgee, Georgia and Flint does not seem 
to have extended into the Ebenezer. 

In 1829, at Woods' meeting-house, John Ross was moderator 
and C. A. Tharp, clerk. John Gray produced a circular, which 
was rejected, and a committee appointed to write one. Four 
churches dismissed, probably to form the Itchaconna, on the 
west side of the river. At New Providence, in 1830, the anti- 

* He became an anti-missionary. 

6 



82 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

missionary spirit still seems to have been dominant, as had been 
the ease for several years preceding. All found in the minutes 
is the receiving and appointing correspondence, etc. Four new 
churches join, and several are dismissed to form the Houston 
Association. Baptized four hundred and ten ; total, fifteen 
hundred and two. 

The session for 1831 is at Poplar spring, Laurens. Three 
new churches join. Campbell and Sherwood are received as 
messengers from Georgia Baptist Convention. Six brethren 
agree to attend next session of Convention at Powelton. Cir- 
cular on missions by H. B. Hathaway, of Dublin church. The 
year following at Camp creek, Campbell and Shorter, messen- 
gers from Convention were refused a seat ! Nothing interesting 
is found in the minutes of 1833 and 1834. These sessions were at 
Big Sandy and Hopewell. In 1835, discontinued correspond- 
ence with Georgia and Washington Associations, because they 
were in correspondence with the Central Association. 

The reader will see he has been following a bod}^, prone to 
changes. From 1816 to 1823, when she became settled in her 
opposition to benevolent institutions, her changes were as fre- 
quent as the annual revolutions of the earth. 

The session for 1836 was at Beersheba. Eenewed corres- 
pondence with Georgia and Washington Associations, having 
heard their reasons for corresponding with the Central ; also, 
opened correspondence with the Central. The following query 
was discussed one whole day, viz : " Are the Institutions of the 
day, such as Missions, etc., consistent with the articles of faith 
of this Association ?" Answered in the affirmative by an over- 
whelming majority. Upon this, seven churches withdrew, with 
Absolom Black, Adam Jones, etc., ministers. These churches 
hold annual meetings and publish their minutes declaring them- 
selves to be the true Ebenezer Association. In 1837, the session 
was quite harmonious. An executive committee was appointed 
to manage the business of the body with reference to domestic 
missions, etc: Correspondence from Georgia Convention, cor- 
dially received. 

At New Hope in 1839, domestic missions are reported to be 
prosperous. $255 were paid out for this object alone. Churches 



Piedmont Association. 83 

twenty-seven — about a dozen minister?. Great improvement 
in the churches of this body of late years. 



PIEDMONT ASSOCIATION. 

This body must have been formed about 1817. The first 
notice of it is a letter received from it by Savannah river As- 
sociation on 25th October of that year. In 1818 the meeting 
is at Westley's creek meeting-house. Peacock and Bates, of 
the Hephzibah, and Thomas S. Winn, of Savannah river, preach 
on the Sabbath. Mr. Winn presented the circular of Kentucky 
Mission Society; this gave rise to considerable debate — laid 
over till next session. Correspondence is sent to Hephzibah 
Association. Baptized nine — total, one hundred and twenty- 
one. The session for 1819, is at Beard's meeting-house, Tatt- 
nal county. "Toted to have nothing to do with missiona- 
ries!" It is presumed this little body was formed to avoid 
connection with the missionary cause. But little information 
concerning it can be gathered. For several years its histoiy is 
lost. 

In about 1829, an itinerant was passing within the bounds of 
this Association. Stopped on the Sabbath and preached — was 
invited to dine with a minister who kept a grog-shop. Relig- 
ion, of course, at a very low ebb. In 1833, it is understood, a 
session was held at a church in Liberty county. Mr. West- 
beny was the only minister present, and was moderator. Bro- 
ther Peacock would not attend, though the father of the body, 
because brother Westberry had joined a temperance society! 

In 1838 the session is at Wesley's creek meeting-house, Mc- 
intosh county. Nothing of interest is found in the minutes. 
They seem to have arrived at nothing higher than appointing 
a moderator and clerk, union meetings, etc. And what have 
they accomplished in nearly a quarter of a century? In 1819 
they had five churches and two hundred and ninety-four mem- 
bers — 1838 there are six churches and two hundred and thir- 
teen members. This is the legitimate consequence of the anti- 
missionary principle. They seem to have shut themselves out 
of the way of others — have had little or no correspondence 
with other Associations — and are still in a low state! 



84 Georgia Baptists — Historical 

SUNBURY ASSOCIATION 

Was a continuation of the Savannah river, and by reference 
it will be seen was constituted in November, 1818. In Novem- 
ber, 1823, the bodj T meets at Powers' church, Effingham county ; 
Samuel S. Law and Thomas Meredith, officers. The constitu- 
tion of the State Convention (then General Association) was 
presented by A. Sherwood, as messenger, and she became a con- 
stituent member. Owing to the distance from the centre of 
the State, she has frequently failed to be represented in the 
sessions of the Convention, but has been uniformly friendly to 
the objects aided by that body, and has generally kept domestic 
missionaries in her own destitute regions, holding forth the 
word of life. 

In 1824, Upper Black Creek church, entertaining sentiments 
in regard to missions, etc., adverse to those of the Association, 
desires to withdraw. After an affectionate discussion, the re- 
quest w r as granted and a letter of dismission given, expressing 
the fellowship of the Association. Very different treatment 
this, from what is experienced by missionary churches in con- 
nection with anti-missionary Associations! This session. was 
held in Sunbury ; Charles O. Scriven and IT. J. Ripley, officers. 
Two years afterwards, the session was at Salem, Chatham 
county. Samuel S. Law and H. J. Ripley, officers. John South- 
well and Jacob H. Dunham, domestic missionaries. Churches, 
seventeen; baptized, six hundred and four; ministers, eleven f 
total, five thousand six hundred and ninety-five. In 1827, the 
body convened at New Hope, Montgomery county. 

The meeting in 1830 was at Power's meeting-house. The at- 
tendance was good, and the session throughout deeply inter- 
esting. Since 1822-23, when a great revival prevailed along the 
seaboard, the body had been gradually increasing in strength 
and efficiency. Several young ministers, talented and zealous, 
had been raised up of late years, whose influence was felt far 
and wide. They were ever ready to incite the churches to 
every good word and work. And having, besides these, men of 
years, and experience, and wisdom to direct the affairs of the 
body, its progress was onward. The ensuing session was in 
Savannah — S. S. Law, moderator. The religious interest was 



Sunbury Association, 85 

great, and the business conducted with the utmost harmony. 
Ministers of other denominations in the city joined heartily in 
the labors of the meeting. Many were converted unto the 
Lord, and it is believed the blessing shed down on the occasion 
will never be fully appreciated on earth. Domestic missiona- 
ries were yearly employed, who performed much itinerant labor, 
devoting their attention mostly to the colored population, whose 
moral and religious improvement was the subject of general re- 
mark. 

The body met in 1835 in the city of Darien. The minutes of 
this session are not in hand. The ensuing year, Walthourville 
entertained the body. Several churches had received large ac- 
cessions during the year. Mr. Edward A. Stevens (now in Bur- 
mah,) was there, having just completed his theological course 
at Newton, Mass. His presence, with his youthful appearance 
and his fervid piety, enhanced the interest of the occasion. He 
is a native of Liberty county, and was baptized into the Sun- 
bury church. Of course, the brethren of this Association felt 
a deep interest in him and his proposed mission to the heathen. 

ISTew Providence, Effingham county, was the place of meet- 
ing in 1833 — J. L. Southwell, moderator, William H. Mcintosh, 
clerk. Messengers were in attendance from the Hephzibah, 
Kbenezer and Savannah River Associations. It was recom- 
mended that special efforts be made to replenish the treasury 
of the General Convention. Three domestic missionaries had 
been in the field a part of the year, namely: J. L. Southwell, 
J. McDonald and F. Gr. B. Law. Ministers attach. ed to the body 
were twenty-four, white and colored. Members, five thousand 
three hundred and eighty-eight; baptized, three hundred and 
eleven. The ensuing year the meeting was in Darien ; minutes 
not in hand. 

In 1843, the twenty-sixth anniversary was held at South 
Newport church, Mcintosh county. The minutes of this ses- 
sion contain the following preamble and resolutions : 

Whereas, Our esteemed brother, the Rev. J. G. Binney, late 
pastor of the Savannah Baptist church, has been providentially 
removed from his labors among us, and is now on his way as a 
missionary to Burmah — 

Resolved, That we hold in high estimation the christian vir- 



86 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

tues and ministerial talents of our beloved brother Binney, and 
that he carries with him our sympathies and our prayers* 

Resolved, That we set apart one hour this afternoon, to be 
observed as a season of speeial prayer to Almighty God for his 
care and protection over and for the safety and success of our 
beloved brother and his companion, in the grand enterprise in 
which they are engaged. 

The session for 1844 was in Darien. Josiah S. Law, moderator, 
William H. Mcintosh, clerk. The body was still in a prosperous 
condition. Amount paid out for various charitable objects, 
mainly domestic missions, is $917 11. Number of colored mem- 
bers, four thousand four hundred and forty -four; number of 
white members, four hundred and ninety-five ; total, five thou- 
sand nine hundred and thirty-nine. Baptized, three hundred 
and seven. 

[From the "Christian Index." By W. H. McIntosh.] 

Mr. Editor : The announcement, in a recent number of your 
paper, of the dissolution of this Association, though not un- 
expected to the writer, was not less sad because it was fore- 
seen. The scene of his early ministerial experience, the news 
that it lives only among the memories of the past, is like that 
of the death of the loved friends who have finished their course, 
and are to be met no more. Musing upon the past, my thoughts 
run along through the years of my connection witjji it, and 
recall, one after another, the unforgotten forms of Augustus 
Bacon, S. S. Law, E. P. Postell, W. Conner, J. S. Law, H. O. 
Wyer, A. Harman, J. O. Screven, and others, who gave life and 
energy to the body, and, further down in the shadowy distance, 
Jacob Dunham, Charles O. Screven and John Southwell, all of 
whom "rest from their labors." 

I have thought the reminiscences qf the times, and of the 
men who acted in them, might not be unacceptable to at least 
those of your readers who have ever been connected with the 
Association. The first meeting was held in November, 1818, 
with the church in Sunbury. I suppose its name was given in 
compliment of the church at that place. And worthy "was she 
of the distinction. She might be called the mother of churches 
and of ministers. Of its organization I have no knowledge, but 



Sunbury Association. 87 

think it was built up mainly by the Rev. Charles O. Screven,* to 
whom I shall refer again. Rev. J. H. Dunham, the Laws, (father 
and son,) Charles B. Jones, J. H. Campbell, E. A. Stevens, James 
Shannon, (afterwards a Campbellite,) J. O. Screven and W. H. 
Mcintosh were licensed to preach by this church, and there may 
have been others unknown to me. A schoolboy in the Academy 
at Sunbury, under Mr. Shannon, I witnessed for the first time 
the ordinance of baptism. I had heard of the sect, and was 
curious to see a baptism, and was among the first at the river 
side, where, early one bright morning, the solemn rite was per- 
formed. I was so struck with the correspondence between the 
description of baptism in the JSTew Testament— which my pious 
mother had taught me to read — and the act before me, that I 
became, child as I was, satisfied on that subject. Dr. Screven 
was then pastor of the church. There was a noble dignity 
about the man that could not fail to impress even the young 
and thoughtless with profound respect for him. His preaching, 
as I remember it, was calm and unimpassioned, but earnest 
and solemn. % * * * **** 

The churches composing this body were not strong in pecu- 
niary resources, and, except in their colored membership, were 
numerically weak. Hence, in most of them, the support of the 
gospel rested upon a few members. The churches in Savannah 
(white) were the only exceptions. It was, nevertheless, active 
in efforts for the salvation of souls, and maintained almost every 
year, until the commencement of the war, two missionaries, 
whose services were given chiefly to the negroes. Covering a 
district of country in which the slave population was large, the 
importance of supplying them with the preached word was 
early felt, and the large increase from this field is the best evi- 
dence of the fidelity with which it was cultivated. The facts 
in this connection have a historical value, and deserve preserva- 
tion. 

In 1818, in the organization of the Association of thirteen 
churches, two were African — the first and second in Savannah, 
numbering two thousand two hundred and fifty members. How 
many of this class were members of the other churches, I have 
no means of ascertaining, but as an approximation, I put down 

*See life of C. 0. Screven, in this volume. 



88 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

the colored membership at three thousand. The minutes of 
1857, the latest that I have seen, show thirteen African churches 
and five thousand nine hundred and fifty-seven colored mem- 
bers. Many of these were connected with the white churches, 
as was the case throughout the country, wherever Baptist 
churches were located in reasonable proximity to them. The 
labors of the brethren of this Association for the evangelization 
of these people were not confined, however, to the operations 
of their missionaries. There was not a pastor who did not de- 
vote more or less time to their religious instruction. The pas- 
tors of the white churches in Savannah were deeply concerned 
for the welfare of the African churches in and around the city. 
They exercised, with their churches, a kind of supervisory care 
over them, giving advice, settling difficulties among them, often 
of a perplexing nature, and instructing them in the principles 
of the gospel. This was true of Wyer and Binney, and their 
successors. Some ministers, who were engaged in secular busi- 
ness, devoted their Sabbaths to preaching to the negroes on the 
plantations near the city, and on the adjacent islands. One broth- 
er, I think, (the late A. Harman,) was brought into the ministry 
by the crying wants of these people, and labored for them with 
the zeal of one whose heart was aglow with the love of souls. # 
1 have been told that the Eev. Samuel S. Law, of honored mem- 
ory — a preacher of the Apostles' sort, "in season and out of 
season," — was accustomed, when he made his weekly visits to 
his plantation, to have his servants suspend work and assemble, 
that he might preach Jesus to them. I have, myself, seen Eev. 
Jacob H. Dunham, after working on his plantation during the 
week, on Saturday, oar in hand, in a canoe, with a negro boy, 
on his monthly missionary voyage to St. Catherine's Island, 
ten or twelve miles distant, with a wide and dangerous river to 
cross, that he might preach the gospel, upon the large planta- 
tions there. And the next Saturday he would ride forty miles 
on horseback, in another direction, upon the same blessed er- 
rand ; and the next, and the next, to other appointments. I 
never heard what his salary was, but from the records of the 
Association, whose missionary he was, his supplies from that 
source were exceedingly scant, ranging from $30 00 to $46 00 
per annum. I recollect hearing that a brother gave him $50 00 



Sunbury Association. 89 

a year to preach to the negroes once a month, forty miles from 
home. I presume this was all he received at that place. But 
he was laying up enduring treasure in a safe place, and has long 
ago gone to enjoy it. The simple truth is, in regard to him and 
others, their services were mostly gratuitous. Rev. Josiah S. 
Law, one of th^ ablest ministers of his day, was consecrated to 
this work, declining to leave it for positions more lucrative and 
distinguished. Others could be named among the living and 
the dead, but what I have written is sufficient to show the 
spirit of the Association. But not alone by preaching did they 
seek the black man's spiritual welfare. Oral religious instruc- 
tion to the children in Sabbath-schools, in houses of worship, 
and on plantations, by ministers and people, male and female, 
was at one time common. I do not know to what extent it 
was continued of late years. Indeed, if there is any class of 
laboring people in the world whose spiritual interests have been 
better cared for than the late slaves of the South, it does not 
come within my knowledge. In our houses of worship, special 
provision was made for their accommodation, and right-minded 
people encouraged their attendance at the house of God. Pas- 
tors gave a part of every Sabbath to them in a separate service, 
and at a convenient hour, and do so still to the freed men, where 
they desire it. Our responsibilities for them did not cease with 
slavery, nor shall our labors for their welfare. I do not men- 
tion these things that we may boast of them. If we had reached 
the full measure of responsibility upon us, exultation would be 
unbecoming, and would only betray the weakness of our nature. 
How far short of the mark that duty prescribed we have fallen, 
God only knows ; but we know enough to humble and abase us, 
and to extort the cry of agonizing penitence, " God be merciful 
to us sinners ! " Nor do I state these things in vindication of 
slavery. It is dead ; let it sleep in its bloody grave. Content 
am I with its vindication by the Bible. I mention them be- 
cause they are facts— facts by which God is honored, while, at 
the same time, they may reflect shame upon us, that, with such 
opportunities as they disclose, they do not stand out in broader 
and, clearer lines. 

Some of your readers may be interested to know what was 
the relation of the African churches to the Association, and 



90 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

their privileges. They were recognized as independent churches, 
and entitled to their privileges as such. They were represen- 
ted by their own members, who voted upon all questions. Some 
of their delegates were free, and some were slaves. Between 
them and their white brethren the kindest feelings prevailed. 
On one occasion the usual harmony of the Association, was in 
some measure disturbed and its peace threatened by an unfor- 
tunate difference between two of the most prominent white 
churches. A question involving much feeling was before the 
body. So nearly were the parties balanced, that anything like 
unanimity among the colored delegates would have turned the 
scale either way, and no one knew with whom these delegates 
sympathized. Just as the final vote was about to be taken, one 
of them rose, and in behalf of the rest, stated that as it was a 
matter in which the white churches were interested, and as 
they loved the brethren in both of those churches, they respect- 
fully asked to be excused from voting. The difficulty was sub- 
sequently, during the meeting, so far adjusted as to remove it 
from the Association. 

The influence of these colored ministers and churches in the 
communities where they were located, I have no doubt, was 
most salutary. Such men as Henry Cunningham and Andrew 
Marshall, who for many years filled the pastorates of the First 
and Second African Churches in Savannah, could not have failed 
to impress themselves upon their people. Long may the mem- 
ory of their good works be fragrant ! In matters of doctrine 
and church polity, while there was no systematic course of 
instruction afforded these churches, they nevertheless derived 
such assistance from their white brethren, ministers and others, 
as to establish and preserve them in the faith of the gospel. 
During the last year, a correspondent of the "New York Exam- 
iner and Chronicle " mentioned with commendation the purity of 
doctrine and practice which he found in one of the African 
churches in Savannah, characterizing it (I quote from memory) 
as a model of apostolic simplicity and truth. It did not, I sup- 
pose, occur to the writer to inquire who, under God, were their 
teachers, or to let the world know that the Baptists in and 
about Savannah had cared for the souls of the negroes, and 



Tug ah River Association. 91 

had for nearly half a century been diligently planting the 
seeds of the gospel in their hearts. 

It must not be supposed that the energies of the Association 
were limited to the work of domestic missions. Concern in one 
department of christian enterprise begets concern in all others. 
Foreign missions, Sunday-schools, ministerial education, the 
temperance cause, were all cherished objects of this body. 
Rev. E. A. Stevens, the missionary to Burmah, was baptized in 
Sunbury, and was the son of the honored deacon of that church, 
and Rev. J. G. Binney went to his work in the same field from 
the Savannah Baptist church. The churches of this Association, 
came perhaps as near the apostolic rule of giving to, and pro- 
moting otherwise, all good objects as God had prospered them, 
i. e.. according to their ability, as any churches of modern times. 

The noble men who composed this Association in former 
years have all passed away, but the light of their example 
lingers around us still, as if to quicken our zeal and stimulate 
our love to Christ. 

[The Baptist meeting-house in Sunbury, in which this body 
was organized, and which had stood about fifty years, was 
burned by the Yankees in 1865.] 



TUGALO RIVER ASSOCIATION 

Was constituted in 1817, of churches chiefly from the Sarepta, 
some being in South Carolina. The name is derived from the 
river, on both sides of which the churches are situated. In 
September, 1819, the session was at Eastannaulee, Franklin 
county. M. Reeves and A. Sherwood preached on the Sabbath. 
Four very aged ministers were in the body: F. Callaway, Sr., 
George Yandiver — but especially Thomas Gilbert and John 
Cleveland, both over ninety years old. Time had given a snowy 
whiteness to their locks, which hung over their stooping shoul- 
ders. 

In 1821 the meeting .was at Double Branches, Franklin 
county. L. Meeks and Benjamin Cleveland, officers. Churches, 
nineteen,, (thirteen of these in Georgia,) thirteen ordained and 
three licensed preachers ; total, seven hundred and seventy-six. 



92 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Several new churches were received at the session at Lime 
meeting-house in 1822. 

For 1829 the meeting is at Conoross meeting-house, in South 
Carolina. Churches, twenty-seven ; baptized, two hundred and 
fifty-five ; total, one thousand three hundred and seventy-four. 
At the recommendation of the body, four ministers, Smith, 
Ballad, B ramie t and Hymer, agree to ride each three months 
and visit the churches and destitute places. The session for 
1835 is held at Shoal creek, Franklin county. An acknowledg- 
ment is made of remissness in supporting the gospel, and the 
churches are recommended to afford such support to their min- 
isters as that they may give their whole time to the work. 
Considered the propriety of establishing a manual labor school, 
and appointed messengers to meet others in Macon county, 
North Carolina. Light had been creeping in upon this body 
for years. In 1825 they refused to receive the minutes of the 
Georgia Baptist Convention ; this year they were read without 
apprehension. About the same time they refuse a seat in their 
body to Jesse Mercer — now they grant him that privilege as a 
messenger from the Georgia Association. The Lord had re- 
moved by death some of the more prejudiced and ignorant ; 
others had learned that they were not too wise to receive in- 
struction. The corresponding letter is full of missions. After 
alluding to other Associations which take a deep interest in 
benevolent institutions, and acknowledging that these had not 
received the grace of God in vain, they continue, " While we 
glory in God on their behalf, we condemn ourselves, and repu- 
diate with shame the doctrine of do nothing.'''' A verse of He- 
ber's missionary hymn is also inserted. 

But after this they turn against missions, etc., so that a his- 
torian cannot tell what their real sentiments are — their posi- 
tion is undefinable. In 1839 the session is held at Eastannau- 
lee, Franklin county. The corresponding Associations are the 
Mountain, Sarepta and Saluda. As the subject of missions has 
produced much excitement, the churches are recommended to 
consider what will be the best method to carry into effect the 
Saviour's commission and report at next session. Ordained 
ministers, ten; baptized, seventeen; total, one thousand and 
thirty-five. 



Yellow River Association. 93 

YELLOW EIYEE ASSOCIATION. 

c£ The committee appointed by the Sarepta and Ocmulgee 
Associations, consisting of brethren Isham Gross, Reuben Thorn- 
ton, Edmund Talbot, James Brooks, Iveson L. Brookes, Eichard 
Pace and Cyrus White, convened at Harris' spring, Newton 
county, on the 18th of September, 1824, when an introduc- 
tory sermon was delivered by Eev. John Sanders, from John 
xvi. 7 ; then repaired to the house, and finding thirteen 
churches in order, assisted in forming them into an Associa- 
tion." Opened correspondence with the Georgia, Ocmulgee 
and Sarepta Associations, and Bennet, Hale, Sanders Moore and 
Colley were appointed messengers to the General Association, 
(now the Convention.) Ministers, eleven ; total, one thousand 
six hundred and sixty-two. Joel Colley, moderator, and Thos. 
J. Hand, clerk. 

The session for 1825 was held at Sardis, Walton county. 
Joel Colley preached the introductory discourse. ISTo business 
of interest is reported in the minutes. The year following it 
convened at Eichland, Gwinnett county. Luke Robinson 
preached the introductory. Jn 1827 the body met at Mace- 
donia — went through the usual round of electing moderator 
and clerk, receiving and appointing correspondence, agreeing 
upon the places of general meetings, and then adjourned. 

The Association met at Covington in 1828. The revival 
spirit which had been enjoyed in the Ocmulgee and Flint Eiver 
had spread into the bounds of this body ; the increase had been 
considerable, the meeting was a happy one, and the crowd on 
the Sabbath was immense. Brethren Jonathan Davis, A. Sher- 
wood and E. Shackelford preached on the Sabbath with great 
effect. 

In 1833 the body met at Bay creek, Walton county, when A. 
Sherwood, from the Georgia Baptist Convention , was refused 
a seat. Twelve churches report no baptisms. The ensuing 
session is at Camp creek, Gwinnett county. The baptisms are 
two hundred and eighty — one hundred and thirteen from Mon- 
roe, Walton county. A protracted meeting had been held there 
by Jonathan Davis, Y. R. Thornton, J. E. Dawson, etc., when 
many had been added unto the Lord. Churches, forty-six; 



94 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

ministers, twenty; members, two thousand nine hundred and 
ninety-eight. The session for 1835, at Utoy, DeKalb county, 
drops correspondence with the Georgia Association, because 
the Georgia had opened correspondence with the Central, 
deemed by the Yellow River " a disorderly body of people," etc. 

The meeting for 1836 was held at Salem, Newton county, 
where a committee is raised to meet with Monroe church. 
The year following, at Mount Parau, this committee report a 
failure of meeting at Monroe ; but the case is tried in the As- 
sociation, and Monroe church is put out of fellowship. Her 
fault is choosing a minister from the Central Association. The 
Yellow Eiver thus decides that a church is not independent in se- 
lecting her own pastor. 

Like some others, this body fulminated resolutions against 
missions, Bible societies, etc,, and against all those who approve 
them. On this account several churches withdrew and formed 
the Eock Mountain Association. Some joined the Appalachee. 
Joel Colley was the moderator for about twenty years or more. 



FLINT RIYER ASSOCIATION 

Was constituted at Rocky creek meeting-house, Monroe 
county, on the 16th October, 1824. Preparatory sermon by 
Edmund Talbot, who also sat as moderator pro. tern. The pres- 
bytery were J. Nochols, E. Talbot, D. Montgomery, J. Calla- 
way, J. Milner, Y. A. Tharp and T. Pierce. Fourteen churches 
joined in the new organization. Robert McGinty, moderator, 
and Eobert Kelton, clerk. Churches, fourteen; ministers, five; 
total, five hundred and twenty -five. 

The second session was at Mount Pisgah, Monroe, in 1825. 
Introductory by Eobert McGinty. Eefused to correspond with 
General Association. Eleven new churches join. The follow- 
ing year the body met at Bethel meeting-house, Butts county. 
William Mosely preached the introductory. No business of in- 
terest is reported in the minutes — nothing more than receiving 
and appointing correspondence, etc. In 1827 the body meets 
at Sardis, Pike county, near Barnesville. Eight new churches 
join. Granade, Callaway and Henderson preach on the Sab- 



Flint River Association. 95 

bath. Shiloh, in Bibb county, was the seat of the session, 1828. 
John M. Gray preached the introductory; J. S. Callaway and 
A. Sherwood on the Sabbath. About $60 were raised for Do- 
mestic Missions. "About nineteen hundred baptized ! " The pow- 
erful revival, prevailing in other parts of the State, is advancing 
gloriously within the bounds of this body likewise. Agreed to 
observe the monthly concert for prayer. Men, in a state of revi- 
val, will not oppose the missionary cause. Seventeen churches 
dismissed to form the Itchaconna. 

Forsyth was the place of meeting in 1829. Here an act was 
perpetrated that did much injury and caused great grief, in the 
case of the Sharon church. For several years, the body passed 
through a scene of affliction, over which the historian would 
gladly cast the mantle of christian charity, and suffer these 
things to die with the passing generation. The meeting for 
1835 is at Shiloh, Fayette county. J. S. Callaway, moderator, 
T. Langly, clerk. Nothing of importance transacted. Churches, 
forty-one; baptisms, one hundred and nine; ministers, eighteen ; 
total, two thousand four hundred and sixty-four. 

In 1837, the session is at Holly Grove, Monroe county. The 
subject of benevolent institutions had been some time on the 
carpet; but a majority of the delegates, instead of declaring 
non-fellowship with such institutions and their adherents, " Re- 
solved, that we are unwilling to go into any new declaration of 
fellowship or non-fellowship, but feel disposed to continue in 
the same old Baptist path of faith and practice, which the As- 
sociation has heretofore pursued." Whereupon fifteen churches, 
with Kev. William Mosely at their head, withdraw from the 
house — hold a meeting in the grove, and agree to have a con- 
vention at County Line meeting-house, in July, 1838. 

After Mr. Mosely and his party have left the body, they 
agree to open correspondence with the Eehoboth and Central 
in about 1840. Since that time, she has become a component 
member of the Georgia Baptist Convention. Missions and Sab- 
bath schools are encouraged. Her ministers are laborious and 
self-denying men, "ready unto every good work." Many of 
their churches have experienced seasons of glorious "refreshings 
from the presence of the Lord." The Lord smiles graciously 



96 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

upon the body from year to year. Eev. J. D. Stewart, of .Griffin, is 
now the moderator. 

Of late years, this body has been actively engaged in the 
work of missions. Its mission to the Indians dates from Octo- 
ber 1st, 1872. During the first year, Benjamin Baker and Wil- 
son Nail, native Indians, were employed as missionaries, who 
did efficient service. They reported twenty-four baptisms, 
the establishment of two Sabbath-schools, numbering in the 
aggregate over one hundred pupils and teachers, and a satis- 
factory amount of other labor. This year there] are three In- 
dian missionaries employed — Benjamin Baker, Solomon Baker 
and Wilson Nail. They have reported for the first quarter, 
nine baptisms, two natives licensed to preach, and the com- 
mencement of one or two church buildings. These missiona- 
ries have been paid promptly at the end of each quarter. The 
Association has also engaged two home missionaries to labor a 
portion of their time within her own bounds — Jonathan Milner 
and J. M. DeFoor. 



CHATTAHOOCHEE ASSOCIATION. 

This 'body was formed at Hopewell church. Hall county, 
March 1st, 1826, of eight churches. A committee had been 
appointed by the Tugalo Association to assist in the formation, 
but all failed to attend. Finding eight orderly churches, three 
hundred and thirty-eight members, seven ordained ministers 
and eight licentiates, it was judged best to constitute, after an 
introductory sermon by James Whitten. James Eiley was 
chosen moderator, and James Whitten, clerk ; so the body was 
organized without a presbytery of ministers delegated from an- 
other Association for this special purpose. The churches which 
united in the constitution were Hopewell, Wauhoo, Mount Sa- 
lem, Yellow Creek, Tessentee, Dewberry, Flat Creek, Mossy 
Creek and Chestatee, chiefly in Hall and Habersham counties. 

Minutes of October, 1826, at Wauhoo church. Silas King 
preached the introductory sermon, and four new churches were 
received, and correspondence from French Broad, S. C, Yellow 
River and Tugalo Associations. 



Chattahoochee Association. 97 

This Association convened on the 13th October, 1827, at 
Mount Salem, and Mr. Willson preached the introductory. Two 
churches joined. Anslem Anthony, moderator, and James Whit- 
ten, clerk. These officers were continued till after the session 
of 1835, when the clerk removed to Harris county, except one 
year, the moderator was prevented by death of his wife from 
attending. Messrs. More, Koberts and G-unn preached on the 
Sabbath. Tensewattee, one of the churches which joined this 
year, had been organized in the Cherokee Nation, and was rep- 
resented by Duncan Obriant, a missionary, who labored several 
years among the Cherokees, and then, in 1832, removed with 
them west of the Mississippi, where he continued to instruct 
till his death, in 1834 or 1835. 

In 1828, the session was held with the church at Tessentee, 
Habersham county. Introductory by James Riley. The most 
important matter was a motion to request the churches to insert 
in the letters for next year the date of their constitution, which 
was complied with. This is the only Association, except the 
Georgia and Central, which know the time of the birth of their 
constituents. Baptized, two hundred and twenty-four; total 
number, eight hundred and twenty-four. 

In 1829, the meeting is at Timber ridge, Hall county. A. 
Anthony preached the introductory. Deacons' meetings recom- 
mended. 

Sardis, Hall county, entertained the Association in 1830, and 
Evans Pearson preached the introductory. B. " Key u olds was 
advertised as excluded from Timber ridge church ; also John 
Koberts. The plan of the Sarepta Association in licensing 
preachers is recommended, and the churches advised to accept 
the tracts offered by the Baptist General Tract Society. On 
the petition of Harmony church, it is observed, "We think that 
the churches have it in their power to improve or advance their 
ministry by putting into their ministering brethrens' hands, 
orthodox theological books," and recommended to raise funds, 
and send up to the next session for this purpose. Churches, 
twenty-three ; total number, one thousand four hundred and 
seventy-eight. 

The session of 1831 was held at Bethabara, Jackson county, 
and introductory preached by James Whit ten. 
7 



98 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

In 1832, the meeting was at Holly Spring, Hall county. Mr. 
Kinzy preached the introductory, and William Manning, mod- 
erator. Dismissed two churches to unite in forming a new 
Association, probably the Mountain. Baptized three hundred 
and two. 

Harmony, Hall county, was the seat of the session for 1833. 
Wm. Manning preached the introductory.. Four new churches, 
Island Ford, Mount Tabor, Liberty and the one at Cherokee 
court-house, received. Agreed to correspond with the Mountain, 
a new Association. Recommend itinerant preaching, and the 
churches to defray the expense. 

Yellow creek, Hall county, entertained the body in 1831. A. 
Anthony preached the introductory. Four new churches joined, 
probably from the Cherokee Nation, as that region is now fast 
settling up. Agreed to correspond with the State Convention, 
and Manning and R.Jones are appointed messengers — the first 
attends. Appointed a committee of five on domestic missions. 
The benevolent institutions, tract, Bible societies, etc., recom- 
mended. Requested A. Anthony to write out his introductory 
(on missions, from Revelations xiv. 6 and 7,) and have one 
thousand copies printed. Mission money collected, $12 50 ; 
twenty-nine churches, one thousand four hundred members. 
Preachers on the Sabbath, Yandiver, from the Tugalo; Byers 
and Jones. Antioch, Hightower, Goshen and Silver Spring 
churches united. 

In 1835, the meeting is at Suwanee church, Gwinnett county. 
S. Roberts preached the introductory. Dropped the correspon- 
dence with the Convention for the present. Several churches 
dismissed to form two new Associations, one north and one 
west of us, and committees sent to assist. It is recommended 
to preach a mission sermon at each session, and the Index is 
also recommended. The following report is inserted: Six Sab- 
bath-schools, two missionary, and five temperance societies, 
some churches revived, and the cause of benevolence advancing. 
Resolved that we will approve, encourage and support every 
effort that is now making in the cause of benevolence and reli- 
ligion that God appears to own and bless. A committee on 
domestic missions is appointed. T. M. Kinzy, the missionary, 
reports favorably — had baptized forty-four persons and consti- 



Columbus Association. 99 

tuted two churches. Mission money, $52 77 J. Ordained min- 
isters, fifteen ; licentiates, three ; ninety-eight baptized ; total, 
one thousand four hundred and seven. James -Riley, the first 
moderator, had died. 

The session for October, 1837, is held at Bethlehem, Hall 
county. Anthony, preacher and moderator, and Rives, clerk. 
Messengers from the Tugalo, Sarepta, Hightower and Yellow 
River Associations were in attendance; also letter, minutes and 
messengers from Chestatee, and agreed to correspond. This is 
probably the first year after the organization of the Chestatee. 

The report on the state of religion shows the churches to be 
in alow state; recommended family and public worship, and 
secret prayer, and deacons to set an example. Paid Wellborn 
Hutchins, Roberts and Chandler, domestic missionaries, $38 15. 
The circular is on the low estate of Zion, and measures sua*- 
gested for revival. Fifteen churches, eight ministers and seven 
hundred and fifty- nine members. 

COLUMBUS ASSOCIATION. 

This body is situated in the western part of the State, in- 
cluding the churches in Talbot, Harris and Muscogee counties, 
and a few others. Tt was organized at New Hope, now Mul- 
berry meeting-house, in Harris county, November 21, 1829. 
By previous invitation, elders John Milner, James Carter, James 
Henderson, S. Stamper and B. Strickland, from the Flint River 
Association, and Z. H. Gordon and Jacob King, from the Echa- 
conna Association, attended as a presbytery. Brother J. Milner 
was called to the chair, and J. King nominated secretary. The 
letters from twelve churches were then read, viz : from Talbot 
county, Yalley Grove, New Providence, Talbotton, Antiocb, 
Bethel, Concord ; from Harris county, Bethesdii, New Hope, 
(now Mulberry,) Lebanon, (now Hamilton,) Mount Olive ; from 
Muscogee county, Bethel and Columbus. The churches being 
found in order, were constituted on the articles of faith of the 
Flint River Association, which are the same as those of the 
regular Baptist churches. Elder Anderson Smith was elected 
moderator, and Clark Blanford, of Hamilton, clerk. The num- 
ber of members, four hundred and fifty-four; baptized this 



100 Georgia Bajrtists — Historical. 

year, one hundred and thirteen. The bounds of the Associa- 
tion were then defined and laid off into districts, viz f first, 
Harris county ; second, Talbot county ; third, Muscogee county; 
fourth, Randolph, Lee and Marion counties. A. Smith the only 
minister in the body. 

The second session of this body was held with the Talbotton 
church, on Saturday before the second Sabbath in October, 
which has ever since been the time of its sessions. John Ross 
was elected moderator, and C. Blanford, clerk. The country 
being new, and the churches scattered over a large space of 
territory, and having none of the bonds which previous ac- 
quaintance create to bind individuals together, it could not be 
fairly expected that there should be found amongst them all 
that union and sameness of sentiment and feeling which are 
found in older and longer established unions. And although 
the ministers were not men of literary attainments, they may 
be truly said to have been men of sound mind and amiable 
character. 

The third session of this body was held with the church at 
Mount Carmel, Muscogee county, in 1831. J. Ross, moderator, 
C. Blanford, clerk. In umber of churches, twenty -five ; commu- 
nicants, one thousand and eighty-seven. Ministers now in this 
body, were John M. Gray, Anderson Smith, G-. B. "Waldrop, 
Hiram Powell, Barclay Martin, J. English, J. W. Pelham and 
Peter Bidridge. 

At this meeting of the body, a package of the minutes of the 
G-eorgia Baptist Convention was laid before it by R. Fleming, 
who was then traveling as a domestic missionary; but such 
was the opposition of many of the brethren present, that al- 
though it was moved by J. M. Gray that it be received and no- 
ticed in a friendly way in their minutes, yet it was rejected, 
and not noticed in their minutes. Ross and Martin were de- 
sirous that the minutes of the Convention should be received 
and noticed as above, and some of the private members desired 
it. Although they appeared, as an Association, unwilling to 
hold correspondence with the Convention, and were disposed 
to stand aloof from all the benevolent enterprises maintained 
and defended by that body, yet they passed a resolution disap- 
proving of candidates treating at elections, and earnestly de- 



Columbus Association. 101 

sired their members and their fellow-citizens to "unite with 
them in endeavoring to put down such pernicious practice. 
This resolution was introduced by B. Martin, and defended 
with much zeal and ability. Had it not been, it probably 
would not have passed. 

The fourth session of the Association was held at Sardis 
church, in Marion county. J. M. Gray, moderator, A. Smith, 
clerk. Churches, thirty-two; members, one thousand five hun- 
dred and thirty-nine. The rapid increase of population in the 
country, and the multiplication of new churches, made it ne- 
cessary, in order to supply the wants of the people, for the 
ministers to spend much of their time in traveling and preach- 
ing. Amongst the most active were Ross, Gray, A. Smith and 
H. Powell. 

The following resolution was passed, (but not without serior.s 
opposition by the moderator, and some others,) viz. : ' l Whereas, 
certain men, under the name of apostolic Baptist ministers, viz. : 
James Wilson, James Eeeves, Cyrus White, John Holmes, B. 
H. Willson, J. Travis, John .Reeves, W. Byars, W. Presley, B. 
Strickland, E. Strickland and Moses White, have published a 
faith differing from the orthodox Baptists, and as they have 
already caused divisions among us, we recommend the churches 
composing this Association to discountenance all such men as 
ministers." This resolution was opposed on account of its in- 
quisitorial aspect. 

The fifth session was held with the church at Mount Zion, 
Randolph county. Churches, forty-three ; members, one thous- 
and eight hundred and six; ministers, eleven ; licentiates, four. 
J. Ross, moderator; A. Smith, clerk. The number of churches 
now in the body, and the extensive space of country over which 
they were spread, made it desirable that another Association 
should be organized out of churches in the southern bounds of 
this body; hence, the following churches took letters for that 
purpose, viz. : In Stewart county, Antioch, Richland, Fellow- 
ship, Mount Paran, Liberty and Bethlehem ; in Sumter county, 
Shiloh, Providence, Bethesda, Bethel and Spring Creek ; in Ran- 
dolph county, Mount Zion, Mount Sinai, Pataula, Bethlehem 
and Antioch ; in Early county, Smyrna and Liberty Hill. These 
churches were organized into an Association called Bethel, at 



102 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Richland church, in Stewart county, on Saturday before the 
fourth Sabbath in November, 1833. 

The sixth session at Bethesda, Harris county, 1834. J. Eoss, 
moderator, and A. Smith, clerk. Churches, thirty; members, two 
thousand five hundred and eighty-eight; ministers, ten ; licen- 
tiates, ten. During this year, the Association sustained a severe 
loss in the death of Elder J. M. Gray, one of her most active 
and able ministers. He died on a tour of preaching, at a Mr. 
Pitman's, Alabama, after having taken a dose of lobelia on lying 
down at night. (See Biographical Sketches.) The churches 
this year enjoyed the greatest revival ever experienced in this 
country — eight hundred and five baptisms. The ministers, un- 
der the gracious influence of the Holy Spirit, were waked up 
to untiring zeal in the discharge of their sacred duties. The 
spirit of missions took possession of most of them ; meetings 
were held and protracted, and hundreds flocked to hear and 
learn the truth as it is in Jesus. The style of preaching was 
altered. Sinners were told they must repent or perish — must 
believe or be damned. Those churches only, however, which en- 
joyed the ministrations of the effort preachers were visited 
with revivals, as will be seen when we notice the churches sep- 
arately. It is remarkable that, as a body, this Association, as 
yet, was much opposed to the benevolent institutions. In spirit 
she was missionary, but in practice she was not ; for, at this ses- 
sion, when a friendly letter from theConvention was presented 
by delegates from that body, viz. : Jeremiah Reeves and T. Daw- 
son, desiring to open correspondence, it was rejected, and not 
noticed in the proceedings of the day. They were merely in- 
vited to preach, which they did, but they left before adjourn- 
ment. The ministers of this body were all the advocates of 
missions. What but an unjustifiable dread of responsibility 
could have been the cause of their not entering decidedly into 
the work of spreading the gospel in connection with the friends 
of benevolence? The character which the ministers and the 
Association sustained abroad authorized the expectation that 
she would have come out in concert with the friendsof missions 
long before this, 

The seventh session was held at Bethel, Talbot county. J. 
Eoss, moderator, and E. Fleming, clerk. Churches, twenty-nine ; 



Columbus Association. 103 

members, two thousand six hundred; baptisms, two hundred 
and twenty -two. Nothing special done at this meeting, except 
that she still rejected correspondence offered by the Conven- 
tion through Elder J. H. Campbell. 

The eighth session was held at Eethel, Muscogee county. 
The Association now becomes more of a business-doing body, 
and though she would have readily united with the Convention, 
by an overwhelming majority, yet for the sake of some who 
were opposed, the advocates declined urging the matter. The 
following resolution was passed unanimously: "Resolved, that 
this body approves of the objects of the Convention, but regard- 
ing the feelings of some of our dear brethren, we deem it pru- 
dent, for the present, to postpone a correspondence, so far as 
we are concerned." The brethren, C. D. Mallary and J. E. Daw- 
son, were present, and they, with the delegates from that body 
to this, did much good; and it is believed that by their able 
counsel, exhortations, prayers and sermons, they made an im- 
pression of the most favorable kind respecting educated minis- 
ters, missionary and temperance societies, etc. The Association 
recommended a meeting to be held at County Line, Talbot 
county, for the purpose of devising a plan by which to supply 
with preaching the destitute in and around the bounds of this 
body. This meeting was held on the Friday and Saturday 
before the fourth Sabbath in November, 18-J6, and a domestic 
missionary society was formed. Elder T. J. Hand, by appoint- 
ment, preached the introductory sermon, and J. Moon on the 
subject of missions on the Sabbath. A collection for missionary 
purposes was taken, and $116 were raised. This may be con- 
sidered the starting point in missions by the Association. El- 
der George Cranberry wrote the circular letter this year, and 
selected as his theme the importance of remembering " the Sab- 
bath day to keep it holy;" also, the duty of christians in support- 
ing the gospel ministry, at home and abroad. The sin of visit- 
ing, traveling and starting to market on Sunday, or Saturday 
evening, has been too common in the country generally, for 
which we ought to be ashamed and repent. With but one soli- 
tary dissenting voice the following resolution was passed: 
"Resolved, that we fully concur with the Ebenezer Association 
in the opinion that the difference of sentiment entertained by 



104 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

members, churches and Associations, in relation to the mission 
cause, and other benevolent efforts, should not affect fellow- 
ship." This year correspondence was opened with the Central 
Association, by a very large majority. 

The ninth session was held at Union, Marion county, (now 
Fellowship, Macon county.) Elder J. Boss, who had been the 
moderator, having departed this life, (June 17, 1837,) J. Perry- 
man was elected moderator, and E. Fleming continued clerk. 
The rules of the Baptist State Convention for the reception of 
beneficiaries were published in the minutes this year, which no 
doubt had a good effect in removing prejudice from the minds 
of some, and correcting error in others. The churches were 
recommended to send up to the next session contributions for 
the purpose of supporting one or more missionaries, in her own 
bounds and parts around. The society which had been organ- 
ized at " County Line" agreeable to the advice of the last ses- 
sion, reported by her secretary, E. Fleming, the proceedings, 
and was recommended to go on in the management and direc- 
tion of its business. 

The circular letter this year was written by Elder H. Powell, 
on the subject: " Ye are the light of the world." The ministers 
and lay-members are urged to their several duties in a clear 
and sensible manner; "the stool of do-nothing " is made out to 
be a very poor thing, and creeping and crawling, in religion, a 
very slow way to press toward the mark for the prize. 

Horeb and Upatoie churches, in Talbot county, and Bethel, 
in Meriwether, did not represent themselves at this session, 
owing to their opposition to the missionary spirit, which they 
evidently saw would pervade the body. They subsequently 
united in forming a new Association, which, by way of emi- 
nence, they called " The Apostolic Baptist Association." In this 
they were joined by remnants from Ariel, in Crawford, from 
Mount Carmel, in Muscogee, and Valley Grove, in Talbot, and 
some others. These were very small churches. They declared 
non-fellowship with all the churches friendly to the benevolent 
institutions, and closed their doors against all the liberal min- 
isters who advocate, as they say, the " society system" 'Tis pass- 
ing strange, that amongst these, as amongst some other opposers 
of missions, there should be efforts made to impress upon the 



Columbus Association. 105 

public mind the belief that the mission societies are connected 
with the abolitionists, and that the advocates of missions are 
abolitionists ! It is difficult to believe that they believe what 
they say in this respect. Again, they endeavor to brand the 
advocates of the Bible, tract, mission, Sunday-school, education 
and temperance societies with disaffection towards the govern- 
ment, with designs to subvert and overturn the glorious fabric 
of the republic! Now, who that knows his A, B, C, in the rise 
and downfall of nations, does not know that the general defii- 
sion of education, morality and religion is indispensable to the 
perpetuity of a republican form of government? And what is 
the tendency of all the above societies ? Our sapient opposers 
say, u to subvert the government!" 

The tenth session was held with the church at Hamilton, 1838. 
Periwman, moderator ; Fleming, clerk. Churches, twenty-nine ; 
members, two thousand and seven hundred ; ministers, fourteen. 
The introductory sermon by G. Gran berry. There were present 
about thirty-five preachers, including those belonging to the 
body — a larger number than ever before assembled in Western 
Georgia. This was one of the most pleasant, interesting and 
profitable meetings ever enjoyed by the Association. But one 
spirit seemed to pervade this large assemblage of the worshipers 
of God. An extensive revival had been enjoyed in a large por- 
tion of the churches only a few weeks previously, and the mem- 
bers were fully prepared, in their feelings and judgment, to 
enter into the wide and delightful field of benevolent opera- 
tions. 

Eight delegates, viz. : J. Ferryman, Robert Fleming, George 
Granberry, Jesse Moon, G. B. Waldrop, Hiram Powell, W. Hen- 
derson, Samuel Harris, were elected to bear a letter to the Geor- 
gia Baptist Convention, petitioning to become a component 
member of that body at its session in 1839, at Richland, in 
Twiggs county. This was a perfectly unanimous act of the 
body. At this meeting, also, the domestic mission society, 
formed two years previously, paid over into the hands of the 
treasurer of the Association the funds of said society, and the 
Association took the business under her patronage and man- 
agement. The sum sent up by the churches amounted to 
$200 25, which, with the sum collected in the congregation after 



106 Georgia Baptists — Historical 

a sermon by Elder J. E. Dawson on Sabbath, amounted to 
$356 25. The missionary operations are now carried on. by an 
executive committee, viz. : Jesse Carter, M. A. George, John 
Neal, Springer Gibson, James Boy kin, and George Gran berry, 
treasurer, and James Perryman, chairman of the committee. 
This committee had in its employ, as a domestic missionary, 
G. W. Key, and expects, by the help of the Lord, to keep at 
least one minister constantly in its service. 

• The auxiliary society, which for several years past had been 
acting in concert with the Convention, dissolved, and will trans- 
mit its donations to benevolent objects, to the Convention, 
through the delegates from the Association. 



THE WESTERN" ASSOCIATION. 

This body was constituted at LaGrange, Troup county, on 
the 7th November, 1829, by committees from the Flint River 
and Yellow River Associations, consisting of the following min- 
isters, viz. : Joel Colley, R. Gunn, G. Daniel, J. Milner, William 
Moseley, William Henderson, J. Carter and J. Nichols. The in- 
troductory discourse was by brother J. Colley. Sixteen churches 
were found to be in good order, and acknowledged as the West- 
ern Association. James Reeves was the first moderator, and John 
Wood, clerk. J. Nichols, William Moseley and A. Sherwood 
preached on the Sabbath. 

The second session, 1830, was held at Newnan. J. Bankston, 
moderator, and J. Wood, clerk. Sixteen new churches joined. 
On Sabbath, Jesse Mercer, Moseley and Nichols preached. The 
following year Greenville was the seat of the session, when J. 
W. Cooper preached the introductory. J. Bankston (who sus- 
tained the office six or seven years) was moderator, and R. M. 
Stell, clerk. The Association refused to correspond with the 
Georgia Convention. Churches thirty-nine; total, one thous- 
and five hundred and forty-six. 

Query: " What is the duty of a church, when a person applies 
for membership on a letter from a church, which had dissented 
from the Flint River Association?" 

Answer: "Recommended the churches to direct the person 



The Western Association. 107 

to seek restoration in some church of the Association from 
whence he came, that is known to stand fair," etc. 

In 1833, the above answer was reconsidered, and the follow- 
ing adopted in lieu thereof: "We recommend the churches to 
act discretionally, with an eye single to the glory of God, and 
the union and peace of the churches, having due regard to orig- 
inal principles." The error in the first answer is this : it takes 
for granted that, because a church has dissented or seceded from 
the Association, therefore, her letters are not valid, which is 
not true. The Flint River Association did not like the answer 
of 1833, and appointed a committee, in October, to visit the 
"Western with a letter. In 1834, a kind of compromise was drawn 
up, which should govern in the reception of members ; but as it 
required the rebaptism of those who had submitted to the or- 
dinance at the hands of seceding ministers, James Reeves and 
James Culberson would not sign it, and the churches have acted 
discretionally and received those whom they deemed worthy. 
Mount Zion and Emmaus churches had been dealing with La- 
Grange and Hephzibah churches for receiving such members; 
but on the proposal of the adjustment, they were advised to 
drop their charges. Several churches were dismissed to form 
the Tallapoosa Association. 

In 1835, the session was with Bethlehem church, Meriwether 
county. Baptized, six hundred and twenty-nine ; churches, 
forty-four; total, three thousand two hundred and fourteen. 
The following year, at Long Cane, some churches declared non- 
fellowship with all benevolent institutions, and wished the body 
to do the same ; but a resolution to this effect was voted down. 
For the year 1837, the session was held at Emmaus, in Troup 
county. The circular letter by Otis Smith is on the commis- 
sion. . Several churches were still dissatisfied on account of 
benevolent institutions, etc. These withdrew and formed a dis- 
tinct body, still claiming the old name of " Western Associa- 
tion." With reference to these churches, the following resolu- 
tions were adopted : 

Whereas, It has been repeatedly charged upon this Associa- 
tion by the delegates of those churches which have separated 
from our union and declared themselves no more of us, that we 
have departed from original principles, that we are connected 



108 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

With the benevolent institutions of the day, and that we have 
departed from the common faith of the denomination ; and, 
whereas, incorrect impressions in relation to our principles and 
practice, as an Association, may be produced by permitting 
these charges to remain unnoticed; therefore, 

Resolved by this Association, That the faith upon which we 
were constituted, and which we believe has ever been the faith 
of the regular Baptists, is still the faith of this body ; that it 
has never been changed, and it is the sense of this body that it 
should not be changed in any particular. 

Resolved, furthermore, That this Association, as a body, is en- 
tirely disconnected with the benevolent institutions of the day, 
and ever has been so, and no act of this body touching the 
benevolent institutions of the day has ever been had other than 
to advise the churches to leave all their members to act freely 
in relation to them, according to the dictates of their own con- 
sciences. 

Resolved, furthermore, That it is the sense of this body that the 
patronizing, or the not patronizing those institutions, should 
be no test of fellowship. 

Resolved, furthermore, That in the opinion of this body the 
following churches, viz : the Hillabahatchy, Hollow Spring, 
Fellowship, Walnut creek, Bethlehem, Providence, Mount Zion, 
Emniaus, Flat Shoal creek and Sardis, have departed from the 
principles and practice of the regular members of the Baptist- 
denomination, by adopting a standard of fellowship and union 
unknown either to the denomination or to the constitution of 
this body, and are therefore in disorder. 

Resolved, furthermore, That to show our brethren and the 
world at large the manifest disorder in which those churches 
have acted, a copy of the letter of Emmaus church to this body 
be incorporated in our minutes, as a specimen of the whole. 

Resolved, That the above named churches, by their own acts 
in declaring a non-fellowship with this body and separating 
therefrom, because the Association refused to comply with cer- 
tain requisitions made in their letters, have deprived them- 
selves of the privileges of this body. 



. The Western Association. 109 

COPY OP A LETTER RECEIVED OF EMMATJ8 CHURCH, TROUP COUNTY, 

GEORGIA. 

The Baptist Church of Christ at Emmaus to the Delegates 

and Messengers composing the Western Association : 

Dear Brethren : The time has arrived when, according to our 
former custom, we shall meet with you at another annual ses- 
sion as an advisory council to provide for the union of the 
churches ; and as it is a well known fact to every observer that 
wide spread divisions exist among us as a denomination, even 
from Maine to Mississippi, and as the gospel has no dividing 
tendenc} 7 , Ave believe it is the incorporation of the benevolent 
(so called) institutions of the day with the churches that has 
caused the confusion of which we complain — we therefore think 
the present crisis calls aloud for something to be done that will 
restore Zion to her primitive simplicity and union, which we 
believe can only be effected by an entire separation from the 
present institution system and uniting upon the principles of 
the gospel. We therefore request the Association to take the 
matter into consideration and provide for the union of the 
churches, by becoming disconnected from those human institu- 
tions and all who patronize them. We, as a church, have re- 
solved to become disconnected from those institutions, both in 
an associate and church capacity, and all who support them. 
Now, dear brethren, if you in your judgment think we have 
transcended our limits, and gone into error, we call upon you 
to convince us from the authority of the word of God. When 
that is done, we will yield the point; but if you, as an Asso- 
ciation, refuse to grant our request, (painful as it is,) we are 
constrained to declare unto you that we are no longer of you, 
as a body, until you return to original principles and unite with 
us upon the gospel system. We therefore design, in the strength 
of the Lord, to maintain the doctrine and discipline of the 
primitive Baptists and unite with those of our sister churches 
who thus act, who hold the constitution of the Association and 
maintain the same. 

Then follows the scale of the churches and names of delegates. 
(Signed) Hartfield Hendon, Clerk. 



1 1 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Hebron was the place of meeting in 1839. The spirit of true 
christian liberality was evidently gaining ground rapidly in 
this bocty. Correspondence with several sister Associations 
had, on some account or other, been suspended for a time. This 
correspondence was resumed with the Georgia, Columbus, Sa- 
repta and Tallapoosa, and opened with llehoboth and Rock 
Mountain. Still the body stands aloof from the Baptist Con- 
vention of the State. Churches, thirty; ministers, eleven; 
total, two thousand four hundred and eighty-seven. 

"We, as an Association, believing it will be more advantage 
to the cause of Christ, and the advantage of the Redeemer's 
kingdom,. and believing it also to be the true scriptural mode to 
contribute to the missionary cause through the medium of the 
churches, instead of through the medium of the missionary 
societies ; therefore, 

Resolved, That it is the sense of this body, that all those 
brethren who desire to send up their contributions to mission- 
ary purposes through the medium of any society, be recom- 
mended to do so through their delegates, to be forwarded by 
this body to the destination directed by the donor, believing 
this to be the scriptural channel. 

It was not until about 1841-42 that the body became associ- 
ated with the Convention. Perhaps no Association in the 
State is now in a more prosperous condition. 



THE UNITED ASSOCIATION. 

Was constituted by Cyrus White, Barnabas Strickland, etc., 
at Teman. Henry county, September, 1832. The churches had 
been in fellowship with the regular Baptists, but had withdrawn 
from the Ocmulgee and Flint River on account of some of their 
measures, which those churches considered oppressive. Sharon, 
Paran, Sardis, etc., had joined in a Convention to consult on the 
best course to pursue, in 1830, and had adopted articles of faith. 
But those churches were unwilling to unite in an Association 
with Cyrus White and other ministers identified with him, who 
were believed to be Arminian in their sentiments, and injudi- 
cious in some of their measures. In 1834, Sharon, Sardis, 
Paran and McDonough united with the Central, on the old con- 



Itohaeonnah Association. Ill 

fession of faith, adopted by the older Associations formed in 
the State. 

To the articles known as st The Sharon Faith" there can be 
no great objection, as it is pretty much in the language of 
scripture. Still, those who held to it with the greatest tenacity 
were charged with a want of faith in principles sacred to the 
Baptists throughout the world. At the ministers' meeting in 
Forsyth, in 1836, some of the ministers of this Association 
would not unite with the mass of ministers from every part of 
the State in subscribing to the old confession above referred to. 
On the other hand, some of the preachers in the Ocmulgee and 
Flint Eiver had wandered off into hyper-Calvinism, or fatalism; 
and it would be very natural for those who were at variance 
with them, to run into the opposite extreme. 

B. Strickland was moderator for three years, and E. Dodson 
clerk from its formation. In 1836 the bounds were so extensive 
that the body agreed to divide ; those churches in Jasper, 
Henry, etc., retained the old name, and those in Harris and 
other western counties are known as the "United Chatta- 
hoochee Association." In 1839, William Byars was messenger 
from the United Association to the State Convention, with 
contributions for missions and other benevolent objects. For. 
though these Associations held no correspondence with other 
bodies of the Baptists in the State, still they were all mission- 
ary in their principles, and were ever ready to contribute lib- 
erally of their substance for their Master's cause. 

If any churches of this order are now in existence (1874,) 
the fact is unknown to the author. 



ITCHACOOTAH ASSOCIATION.* 

This union was formed in the winter of 1829, at Mount Car- 
mel, in Crawford county, the churches, nineteen in number, 
having been dismissed from the Flint River in the preceding 
October. They are situated in Bibb, Crawford, Monroe, Hous- 
ton, etc. The presbytery were John Milner, William Moseley 

* A creek of this name falls into the Ocmulgee within the bounds of this body, after 
which the Association is named. It is an Indian name, and signifies in English a 
" deer trap." 



112 Georgia Baptists — Historical 

and Joseph Chipman. John Blackstonc was the first moderator, 
and Austin Ellis, clerk. The meeting for 1832 was at .Bethle- 
hem, Upson county. The same officers continued. Nothing 
of importance done. The following year the session is at Union, 
Bibb county. This body has stood aloof from missions, Bible 
societies, Sunday-schools, temperance societies, etc. Baptisms, 
eighty-one, thirty-three of which are at Bethesda, administered 
by Jacob King. Number of members, one thousand seven 
hundred and seventy-nine. 

The meeting for 1837 is held at Bethel church, Houston 
county. Churches, twenty-eight ; members, one thousand eight 
hundred and fifty-seven. " Resolved, That the systems of the 
day, benevolent, so called, such as Bible, missionary, temper- 
ance, tract societies, etc., are unscriptural, unsupported by di- 
vine revelation, and therefore anti-christian" etc. 

A committee was appointed to organize new bodies out of 
churches broken off from orderly Associations on account of 
difference of opinion touching the benevolent institutions of 
the day. 

This now seems to be a working body, and has its hands full 
of business in her endeavors to suppress missions, temperance, 
etc. Some of her most prominent ministers have been violent 
in their opposition to these things. A few of these have been 
called to their last account ! Jonathan Weal was moderator of 
this body for several years. Like all other bodies entertaining 
such sentiments, it is on the decline. 



WASHINGTON ASSOCIATION. 

The churches which formed this body were dismissed from 
the Hephzibah Association in October, 1828. They are located 
in Washington county (from which the Association derives its 
name,) and contiguous counties. William R. Stansell had been 
active in bringing about the constitution, and was the first 
moderator. But in two or three years he removed to Missis- 
sippi. Others from the Ebenezer and Georgia joined soon after 
its formation, so that in 1834 there were nineteen churches and 
one thousand one hundred and sixty-eight members — the num- 
ber of ministers having always been small. That year the ses- 



Houston Association. 113 

sion was at Island creek church, Hancock county. Introduc- 
tory sermon by J. P. Leverett. James Barnes, moderator, and 
Benjamin Roberts, clerk. Agreed to correspond with the Cen- 
tral, (constituted that same year,) and sent corresponding mes- 
sengers to the Convention. Recommended the members of its 
churches not to engage in the traffic in ardent spirits. A mis- 
sion sermon is usually preached on the Sabbath of its sessions. 
This year the sermon was preached by J. E. Dawson, (of the 
Central Association,) and a collection amounting to $51 00 was 
taken up. The Lord was graciously present in the meeting — 
a powerful excitement prevailed in the congregation — the ser- 
vices were protracted several days and the church received 
considerable additions. The Island creek people will never 
forget this meeting. 

Bethel church, Hancock county, entertains the Association in 
October, 1835. James Barnes, who had been moderator for 
some years, is about to remove to Mississippi, and a commend- 
atory letter is given him. After Obadiah Echols (of the Cen- 
tral,) bad preached the mission sermon on Sunday, $71 00 are 
taken up for that object. Mount Olive church seceded, owing- 
to difficulties between herself and Beulah and Shoulderbone 
churches, which difficulties had arisen on account of Tilman D. 
Oxford, the pastor of Mount Olive. 

In 1838 the session was at Friendship, Greene county. Ben- 
jamin Roberts, moderator, J. Graybill, clerk. Received corres- 
pondence from the Convention and from the Georgia and Cen- 
tral Associations. At the suggestion of Island creek and Beu- 
lah churches, the body passed a resolution recommending her 
members to consider the propriety of uniting with the Conven- 
tion. A large majority of the churches are found to be in favor 
of such a connection, and the next year she resolves to unite 
with the Convention. In 1839, the session was at Darien, 
Washington county. The body is in a prosperous condition. 

HOUSTON ASSOCIATION. 

It is supposed this body takes its name from Houston county, 
in which most of its churches are situated. In 1830, several 
churches petitioned for letters of dismission from the Ebenezer 
8 



114 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Association for the purpose of forming a new body, and breth- 
ren Tharp, Baker and Melton were appointed to aid in said, 
constitution. Rev. John McKenzie seems to have had some- 
what to do in the affairs of this new concern, and there has 
been more or less of division in sentiment among its churches 
and ministers for a number of years. In consequence of which, 
it has not been as prosperous as many other Associations in the 
State. In 1833, it has fourteen churches, three hundred and 
eighty-seven members, and very few ministers. 

In 1838, the body meets at Ebenezer church, Dooly county. 
The circular, by J. McKenzie, is a religious and literary curi- 
osity. The propriety of corresponding with the Ebenezer Asso- 
ciation is questioned, and the matter is referred to the churches. 
This question arose from the fact that a few churches had sece- 
ded from the Ebenezer because she would not declare non-fel- 
lowship with missions, etc., while the principles of that respect- 
able body of christians remained unchanged. On this subject 
of correspondence, the body disagreed in 1839, and division 
was the consequence. Several churches must needs withdraw. 
Joshua Mercer was present as a delegate from the Bethel Asso- 
ciation. He and A. T. Holmes, of the Rehoboth, preached on 
the Sabbath. Churches, eleven ; baptized, one hundred and 
seven ; total, three hundred and forty-six. 



ROCK MOUNTAIN ASSOCIATION. 

This body takes its name from the Rock Mountain, in DeKalb 
county, in which several of the churches are located. The 
churches withdrew from the Yellow River Association princi- 
pally on account of her treatment of Monroe church, and her 
adoption of the n on -fellowship resolutions. That venerable 
man of God, Luke Robinson, may be regarded as the most ac- 
tive in gathering them into a separate connection. In July, 
1839, ten churches met in council and agreed to form an Asso- 
ciation. In October following, the body was organized at Mac- 
edonia church, DeKalb county. Two other churches join, viz. : 
Cool Spring and Long Shoal. Visiting members present, and 
aiding in the constitution : C. D. Mallary, T. Phillips and Joshua 
S. Callaway. George Daniel, moderator, and E. Henderson, 



Central Association, 115 

clerk. Correspondence is opened with some eight or ten Asso- 
ciations. 

In 1840, the session is at Salem, Newton county. Four other 
churches unite. Messengers from the Sarepta, Appalachee, Cen- 
tral, Georgia, Flint Eiver and Chattahoochee Associations are 
received. Chambliss, Hendricks and "Wilkes preach on the Sab- 
bath. 

CENTRAL ASSOCIATION. 

It was on an exceedingly cold day, February 1, 1834, that a 
few brethren, who had suffered much in feeling for their Mas- 
ter's sake, met at Indian Creek meeting-house, in Morgan coun- 
ty, for the purpose of constituting a new Association. The 
churches which they represented had formerly been happily 
connected with the Flint Eiver and Ocmulgee Associations. 
They had grown with the growth, and strengthened with the 
strength of those bodies. With them they had rejoiced in pros- 
perity and mourned in adversity. But an evil day had dawned 
upon Zion in Georgia. A spirit which was wont to usurp the 
rights of the churches, and to lord it over God's heritage, (orig- 
inating in opposition to benevolent societies,) had shown itself 
in those Associations. In vain had the voice of age and wisdom 
been heard in their councils. A committee of the Flint Eiver 
Association had visited Sharon church, in Henry county, and 
had claimed, most unceremoniously, the moderator's seat, which 
being denied them, they withdrew from the house and suc- 
ceeded in dividing the church. At the next session, the Asso- 
ciation voted to receive both the majority and minority, on cer- 
tain conditions. Several churches seceded in consequence. The 
case of Eatonton and New Salem churches had excited conten- 
tion and division in the Ocmulgee. The latter had received 
members of the former, on letters obtained in a disorderly con- 
ference, while a minority even of that conference were object- 
ing to their dismission. With a full knowledge of these facts, 
these members were received into New Salem. The matter 
disturbed the sessions of the Associations for several years, till 
in 1833, at Elam church, Jones county, the body withdrew 
from Eatonton church. This was immediately followed by the 



116 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

secession of several churches from this Association likewise. 
There had been several preliminary meetings, and now the 
seceding churches, on both sides of the Ocmulgee river, thought 
best to constitute a distinct Association. 

The meeting was opened by singing, prayer, and reading of 
the scriptures by Eev. Ira M. Allen, of Philadelphia, Pennsyl- 
vania, who was providentially present. Brother James Fears, 
deacon of Indian creek church, was invited to act as moderator, 
and J. H. Campbell, clerk. Eev. Adiel Sherwood, of the Geor- 
gia Association, was also in attendance, and gave his counte- 
nance and encouragement to the undertaking. The ministers 
who were members of the churches which united in the con- 
stitution were B. H. Wilson, W. A. Callaway, J. Travis and J. 
H. Campbell. As much had been said about their departure 
from the faith, their Arminianism, heresy, etc., it was agreed 
to adopt the confession of faith of the Georgia Association as 
being the oldest in the State, and embodying the views of the 
churches and ministers now uniting. The name "Central" was 
adopted on account of its central position in the State. The 
following is a list of the churches and delegates: Antioch, J. 
Swanson, J. Evans, L. Hearn, J. M. Evans ; Indian creek, James 
Fears, John E. Dawson; Eatonton, Thomas Cooper, Jeremiah 
Clark; Sharon, William Thames, B. H. Wilson, Jesse Travis; 
McDonough, W. A. Callaway, J. H. Campbell ; Paran, James 
Bulloch ; Sardis, William Lane. It was, "Resolved, That though 
we felt it our duty, from a sacred regard to principle, to secede 
from the Association, we are ready at all times to meet them, 
in order to reconcile the differences that exist; we desire union 
with all our brethren but we dare not sacrifice truth and prin- 
ciple for union only in name." The ministers were compara- 
tively young men. Yet they agreed among themselves to abstain 
from controversy as much as possible, and "preach Jesus Christ 
and him crucified." These were the feelings that prevailed in 
the constitution and first session, and with which the delegates 
returned to their several churches. The annual session was 
appointed at Antioch, the second Sabbath in August follow- 
ing. 

There was one peculiarity in the decorum of this body, which 
has had influence upon its interests ever since; that is, it "rec- 



Central Association. 117 

ognizes and approves of Sabbath-schools, missions, the educa- 
tion of ministers, Bible, temperance and tract societies, and will 
give them our hearty co-operation; but fellowship will not be 
disturbed with any member who does not feel it his duty to 
contribute to their support." An executive committee was 
appointed, " to which was committed the management of do- 
mestic missions." 

Pleasing appearances of a general revival were discovered in 
the course of the spring and summer of 1834. In the neighbor- 
hood of the Indian creek church, several conversions had oc- 
curred. In Eatonton and McDonough, many were inquiring 
the way of life. It was under this state of things that the 
delegates from the churches assembled at Antioch, (a place ren- 
dered memorable by the breaking out of the great revival in 1837,) 
to attend their first annual session. The introductory sermon 
was preached by Jesse Travis, " a man full of the Holy Ghost 
and of faith." It was evident that tbe Lord was present to 
bless ! Two of the ministers spent Saturday night in prayer, 
with strong cries and tears ! On the Sabbath, the power of the 
Holy One came down on the vast assembly. Before the meet- 
ing closed, (some ten days,) upwards of eighty were baptized 
into Antioch church. Eev. Messrs. Jonathan Davis, A. Sher- 
wood, and Y. R. Thornton, favored the occasion with their pres- 
ence and labors. The work did not stop there: the delegates 
and ministers carried home the good influence with them — all 
the churches shared in the blessing, and hundreds were added 
unto the Lord. For several months the preachers had no rest 
from their labors. Day and night they were among the peo- 
ple, at the meeting-houses, from neighborhood to neighborhood, 
and frequently from house to house, "warning every man and 
beseeching every man with tears." The Milledgeville church 
was received at this meeting. Delegates, Judge John G. Pol- 
hill, G-. Leeves and Baldwin. The executive committee 

were constituted a foreign and domestic mission board. One 
hundred dollars were paid Abner B. Stanley, domestic mission- 
ary, and $128,12J taken up on the Sabbath after the missionary 
sermon by J. H. Campbell. Arrangements were made with 
Lot Hearn, executor of Seth Hearn, to receive a legacy left by 
his will to foreign and domestic missions, amounting to seven- 



118 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

teen hundred dollars. The state of things among the churches 
was so interesting, it was agreed to hold an extra session at 
Sharon camp-meeting, which accordingly took place on the 
first Sabbath in September following. Here it was agreed, 
" that we apply for admission as a component member of the 
Georgia Baptist Conven tion." (The churches had hitherto been 
united with said body through auxiliary missionary societies.) 
Upwards of forty were baptized during this session. It is stated 
in the minutes, that "most of our churches are experiencing 
the reviving influences of the Spirit." Agreed to seek corres- 
pondence with the Georgia Association, also with the Sarepta. 

The following year, (August, 1835,) the body met in McDon- 
ough, Henry county. Only two ministers present at the open- 
ing of the session, (Campbell and Callaway,) and they both 
members at McDonough. The aspect of affairs was discour- 
aging. Brethren Jonathan Davis and J. E. Dawson arrived, 
however, during the afternoon. Christians seemed deeply en- 
gaged and many sinners appeared to be " asking the way to 
Zion." Multitudes flocked in from the surrounding country, 
the meeting was protracted upwards of a week, and near forty 
baptized ! The correspondence offered to the Georgia Associa- 
tion, the October previous, had been kindly received, and 
brother Davis was now in attendance as a messenger from that 
body. The Sarepta declined our correspondence, though many 
of her wisest men were favorable to it. The Association had 
been received as a component member of the Georgia Baptist 
Convention, much to the mortification of its numerous enemies 
and opponents. The triennial Convention had resolved to at- 
tempt to raise $100,000 00, and the Georgia Convention had 
agreed to endeavor to raise three thousand of this amount. This 
subject was strongly recommended to the attention and favor 
of the churches. Our brethren were again exhorted (as at the 
previous session,) to read through the Bible annually, which 
work many of them accomplished. 

One of the missionaries of the body, Abner B. Stanley, a zeal- 
ous and useful licentiate, had been removed by death. Suitable 
resolutions in reference to the afflictive and mysterious dispen- 
sation were adopted. Jesse Travis and J. H. Campbell spent a 
portion of the year in domestic missionary service. Amounts 



Central Association, 119 

for benevolent objects, $1,317 02£. Three churches joined, 
Madison, Clinton and New Hope, in Henry county. 

The session for 1836 (held in Clinton, Jones county, in Au- 
gust,) was favored in like manner with evidence of the divine 
favor and presence. Some eight or ten were baptized. The 
correspondence of the body was annually enlarged. Though 
at first an object of great jealousy with many good brethren, 
when they came to understand the grounds upon which they 
had seceded from the older Associations, they were fully justi- 
fied. The fact that the body applied to several Associations for 
correspondence, caused much investigation and discussion as to 
the powers of Associations, the rights of churches, etc. It is 
believed that in this way the Lord brought good out of evil. 
These subjects were far better understood than they had been 
for many years, or perhaps ever in this State. Correspondents 
were in attendance from the Georgia, Washington and Sunbury 
Associations. Monticello and Ramoth churches joined. The 
time of the annual session was changed to the fourth Sabbath 
in August instead of the second. The meeting was favored 
with the counsels and labors of such men as Wilson Conner, 
Humphrey Posey, A. Sherwood, C. D. Mallary, and others of 
less experience. Directed the executive committee to appoint 
a delegate to the Great Bible Convention in Philadelphia, the 
object of which was approved. Eev. A. Sherwood was appoint- 
ed, and represented this body in that Convention, which formed 
the American and Foreign Bible Society. An extra session 
had been held at Antioch the foregoing March, when it was 
agreed to attempt to raise $20,000 00 to endow a professorship 
of languages and sacred literature in the Baptist College, then 
in contemplation, to be located at Washington, Wilkes county. 
The site was subsequently changed to Penfield, and the pledge 
of this body is very nearly redeemed. The Georgia Convention 
had resolved to attempt to raise $10,000 00 for foreign missions. 
This Association agreed to endeavor to raise $2,500 00 towards 
that amount, and to appropriate $50 00 for tracts for gratuitous 
distribution by our ministers. Rev. C. D. Mallary had moved 
to Milledgeville, and several had been ordained since the con- 
stitution of the body, John E. Dawson, Henry Collins and Thomas 
U. Wilkes. This was cause of rejoicing, But there was also 



1 20 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

cause of deep lamentation on account of the death of Jesse 
Travis, " whose praise was in all the churches." The Carmel 
church joined at the extra session at Antioch. Domestic mis- 
sions had been vigorously prosecuted. 

The introductory sermon in 1837 was preached by T. U. 
"Wilkes, at Madison, Morgan county. Mallary, moderator, and 
Campbell, clerk. Besides correspondence received at former 
sessions, mesengers appeared from Ebenezer, Appalachee and 
Sarepta Associations. That venerable man, Jesse Mercer, was 
present, and by special invitation preached the missionary ser- 
mon. Eev. I. L. Brooks also preached on the Sabbath. Nothing 
of special interest is found in- the proceedings of this session. 

At Eatonton, Putnam county, in 1838, the introductory dis- 
course was preached by C. D. Mallary, and the missionary ser- 
mon by J. H. Campbell ; $126 00 collected. Sugar creek church 
was admitted into the union. The church had anticipated the 
meeting with much interest and many prayers. The Spirit 
was poured out copiously on the people and many were added 
unto the Lord. Brethren were present from the Behoboth and 
Columbus, besides many other Associations. After prayerful 
deliberation, it was agreed to open correspondence with the 
Flint Biver Association in regard to the former difficulties of 
some of our churches with that body. It was reported that 
about $18,000 00 had been secured towards the " central pro- 
fessorship " in Mercer University. 

Sharon church, Henry county, entertained the body in 1839, 
where Harmony and Salem joined, and where messengers from 
the Flint Kiver Association were welcomed to seats. Corres- 
pondence with that body was continued, which resulted in the 
adjustment of all differences which had existed, and that, too, 
upon principles of righteousness and truth. The following 
year, the session was at Carmel, Newton county. The spirit 
of piety seems to have undergone some decay ; yet peace pre- 
vailed in the churches, and much domestic missionary labor 
was performed by C. D. Mallary and S. E. Gardiner. Liberty 
and Little river churches joined. A friendly letter was received 
from the United Association by brethren Byars, E. Strickland 
and E. Dodson ; also, a similar one from Hephzibah church, in 
Jasper county, a member of that Association. Though no reg- 



Central Association. 121 

ular correspondence was the result, yet much good grew out of 
the kindness and faithfulness exercised towards those brethren. 
"The middle wall of partition" was broken down, and a better 
understanding now prevails. 

For several years C. D. Mallary had been moderator, but he 
having removed out of the bounds, J. E. Dawson was elected 
moderator at Ramoth, in 1841. Providence church was received 
into the union. Regular correspondence was now enjoyed with 
nine Associations: Washington, Georgia, Rock Mountain, Reho- 
both, Sarepta, Appalachee, Flint River, Ebenezer and Columbus. 
Brother John P. James, of the United Association, was in at- 
tendance. Rev. William Byars had become a member of Sardis 
church, and was a delegate in this session. Sabbath-schools 
and temperance engaged much attention and excited much in- 
terest. Only forty-seven were baptized during the Associa- 
tional year. In 1842, at Paran church, J. H. Campbell was 
elected moderator, J. E. Dawson having removed to LaGrange. 
Thomas TJ. Wilkes was elected clerk. These have been the 
officers of the body several years. Friendship church became 
a member at this session. Hearn Manual Labor School was 
noticed favorably, and several hundred dollars subscribed for 
that institution. It was agreed to hold an extra session at 
Providence church, Jasper county, with reference to the case 
of New Hope church, whose application for membership could 
not be favorably entertained. Nothing was accomplished in 
this matter, however, by the extra session, and the church was 
not received. Rev. William Byars was engaged a portion of 
his time, as domestic missionary. Very little was now done in 
this cause, in comparison with past years. 

Delegates from the churches assembled in 1843 at a Baptist 
camp-meeting near Friendship church, Greene county. Rev. 
I. L. Brooks was a delegate from Sugar creek church and John 
P. James from Sardis. After solemn prayer for " the peace of 
Jerusalem," it was resolved to send a conciliatory letter to the 
Ocmulgee Association, which now seems to be in quite a de- 
clining state. (Brother J. F. Hillyer, who bore this letter, met 
with no encouragement, and the effort has not been renewed.) 
The meeting was one of interest — many sinners were awakened, 
and several baptized into the church. Rev. Messrs Byars and 



122 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Buckner had been employed as missionaries. The following 
year, 1844, the session was at Salem, Jones county. Owing to 
the great 'political excitement prevailing at the time, the state of 
religion throughout the country was low, and, though the sub- 
ject was seldom named on occasions of our religious anniver- 
saries, yet many of the brethren were so much engrossed with 
it, as to be poorly prepared for more holy services. Many ex- 
cellent preachers attended at Salem, but their labors seemed to 
be as water spilled upon the ground, which cannot be gathered 
again. The executive committee reported much valuable labor 
performed during the year, by the colporteur, brother Nelson. 
Several hundred dollars worth of religious books and tracts had 
been sold or distributed by him. Many poor families had re- 
ceived the Bible gratuitously. 

The Association convened in 1845 at Sardis church, Butts 
county, and was held in connection with a camp-meeting of 
great interest. With most of the churches, the days of mourn- 
ing seem to have passed away, and times of prosperity to have 
returned. Cheering revival intelligence came up from many 
neighborhoods. It w T as with great rejoicings that the brethren 
met together, in vast numbers on this occasion. B. M. 'Sanders, 
Jonathan Davis, J. S. Callaway, James Davis, James Carter 
and other esteemed servants of the Lord were there. The ex- 
ecutive committee had been diligently engaged in promoting 
domestic missions, and the Lord had owned their labors. Eev. 
Messrs. Wilkes, Phillips, Carter and Bledsoe had given themselves 
to the work with great zeal and untiring perseverance. Many 
souls had been brought " out of darkness into marvelous light." 
During the session, the gospel was preached with unusual 
power, and the vast assembly felt that God was there. The 
business transacted was, much of it, of an important nature, 
and was attended to with the utmost harmony. 

Thus it may be seen, that in some ten or eleven years, the 
members of this body have more than doubled; much domestic 
missionary labor has been performed; thousands of dollars have 
been contributed to the foreign mission and education cause ; 
several useful ministers have been ordained. While, on the 
other hand, those churches that oppose missions, etc., have 



JRehoboth Association. 123 

dwindled away, many churches have become extinct, and very 
few conversions have occurred. 



REHOBOTH ASSOCIATION". 

There had been a division in the Jtchaconna Association on 
the subject of benevolent institutions, and those churches that 
were of the liberal party met at Benevolence church, Crawford 
county, and constituted the Rehoboth Association, July 27th, 
1838. The names of those churches are as follows: In Upson 
county, Harmony, Bethesda, Antioch and Fellowship ; in Craw- 
ford, Elim, Benevolence and Liberty Grove ; Perry church, 
Houston ; Macon church, Bibb ; and Forsyth church, Monroe — 
ten churches in all. Among the delegates were Jacob King, Z. 
H. Gordon and A. T. Holmes. The visiting ministers present, 
and approving of the organization, were Wilson Conner, C. A. 
Tharp, James Perryman, Robert Fleming, and S. W. Durham. 

In the dawn of its existence, the Association recognized its 
obligation to preach the gospel to every creature, to circulate 
the scriptures in all lands, to educate the ministry, and to or- 
ganize Sunday-schools and temperance societies. The fol- 
lowing ministers have been employed, first and last, as her 
domestic missionaries : James Steely, A. Home, Austin Ellis, 
Jacob King, J. W. Stephens, A. T. Holmes, C. Peurifoy, H. 
Garland, M. J. Jackson, E. B. Barrett, W. Thomas, J. Thomas 
and W. J. Collins. Scarcely a year has intervened since its or- 
ganization but that it has had missionaries in its own bounds 
or elsewhere, preaching to the destitute. 

In 1852 a colored minister, Rev. Csesar Fraser, a native Afri- 
can, was sent out by this Association to preach the gospel in 
his own country. In January of that year he sailed from Sa- 
vannah, in company with Rev. Eli Ballj of Virginia, (who was 
going out on a visit of inspection to the mission stations in Af- 
rica,) and located near the town of Monrovia, on the St. Paul's 
river. In the course of the following year, the Foreign Mission 
Board having expressed its willingness to sustain this colored 
brother, the Rehoboth adopted Rev. J. S. Dennard and wife as 
her missionaries to Africa. Mrs. Dennard died within a few 
months after her arrival in that dark land, and her husband 



124 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

soon followed her to the grave. In 1857, Eev. T. A. Reid and 
wife went out to Africa as missionaries of this Association. 

The efforts of this body at home and in Africa only tended 
to inflame the zeal of her churches, and in 1857 it was resolved 
to attempt to send one or more missionaries to the Indians of 
the West ; and to ascertain the practicability of sending others 
to the Jews in Constantinople or Jerusalem, and also to South 
America. The year following, Eev. J. S. Murrow and wife 
were acting as the missionaries of this body at Micco, in the 
Indian Territory, where they still labor for the salvation of the 
red men. (The first Mrs. Murrow died, but her husband found 
a second wife, " worthy and well qualified," in the person of 
Miss Burns, daughter of a missionary to the Choctaws.) Mr. 
Murrow has proven himself a most devoted and successful mis- 
sionary. 

Of course, a body of such intelligence and piety could not 
refrain from sending missionaries into the Confederate army 
during the late war. Eev. E. B. Barrett was accordingly sent 
to the army of Virginia, and Eev. B. F. Tharp and other minis- 
ters preached to the soldiers at other places. 

In 1853, the Association resolved to take a more active part 
in the education of pious young men preparing for the ministry. 
Appropriations were made for the benefit of James F. McLeod 
and Asa B. Marshall. A valuable library was presented to 
each. The latter was sent to Mercer University, where he 
graduated with credit in 1860. 

A Baptist bookstore was established by the Association at 
Fort Valley, A. D. Kendrick, agent, and was kept in successful 
operation for several years. Thus, it would seem, the body 
was engaged in every good work. It may be considered the 
model Association among Georgia Baptists. 

That eminent and gifted man, Jacob King, was moderator 
from the time of its organization until his death — twenty-four 
years. Since then B. F. Tharp, J. H. Clark, J. M. Wood and 
Col. T. S. Sharman have presided in turn. Holmes, Wilkes, 
Lac drum and Holtzclaw have filled the office of clerk. Besides 
these, there have been connected with the body, from time to 
time, many choice spirits : Zack. Jordon, C. D. Mallary, J. E. 
Kendrick, H. 0. Hornady, T. E. Langley, E. W. Warren, J. H. 



Bethel Association. 125 

Corley and many other able and efficient ministers, besides 
many laymen of intelligence and great moral worth. 

For many years past this Association has stood aloof from 
all connection with the Boards of the Southern Baptist Conven- 
tion, preferring to manage her missions through a committee 
of her own. The great efficiency of her plans and success of 
her efforts is a strong argument in favor of her policy, which is, 
to have the relations between the churches and missionaries as 
intimate as possible. 

The body is still sustaining Rev. J. S. Murrow among the 
Indians, who is assisted by two native preachers. Seventeen 
churches have been organized, an Association constituted, (in 
which there are about one thousand members,) meeting-houses 
are being built, and the condition of the " Rehoboth Indian 
Mission " every way encouraging. 

BETHEL ASSOCIATION. 

MINUTES OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THE BETHEL ASSOCIATION. 

Saturday, November 23d, 1833. 

The several churches dismissed from the Columbus Associa- 
tion met according to appointment at Richland church, Stewart 
county, and being met by brethren Andrew Hood and Ander- 
son Smith, ministers of the gospel, who were appointed by the 
Columbus Association to constitute the several dismissed 
churches into an Association, and after a sermon by brother 
Hood, appropriate to the occasion, the brethren, Hood and 
Smith, formed a presbytery, and invited visiting brethren in 
the ministry to unite with them ; whereupon brother Joseph 
Ross took a seat with the brethren, and after prayer by brother 
Joseph Ross, proceeded to business and invited brother Smith 
to the chair. 

1. Called for and read letters from fourteen churches and 
minuted their State. 

2. After an examination of the churches on the principles of 
the christian faith, and finding them orthodox, proceeded to 
constitute them into an Association upon the articles of faith 
held to and published in the minutes of the Columbus Associa- 



126 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

tion. Prayer by brother Hood. A solemn charge given by 
brother Smith. The presbytery then proceeded to extend the 
right of fellowship to the brethren, and the brethren to each 
other. 

3. Agreed that this Association shall be called the Bethel 
Association. The Association then proceeded to busin — 

[The following are the churches which originally constituted 
this Association, viz: Antioch. Stewart county: Autioch. "Ran- 
dolph ; Bethlehem. Stewart ; Bethlehem. Randolph : Fellow- 
ship. Stewart : Liberty Hill, Early: Liberty. Stewart: Mount 
Sinai. Randolph ; Mount Paran, Stewart : Mount Zion, Ran- 
dolph : Pataula. Randolph ; Richland. Stewart ; Spring Creek. 
Sumter ; Smyrna. Early : Poplar Spring. Houston.] 

The minutes of the second session represent that it was fa 
Spring creek church. Sumter county, in connection with the first 
Sabbath in September. 1S34. There were twenty-one churches 
represented, showing a membership of live hundred and seven! y- 
nine. Some of these churches were quite weak, containing 
eight, ten. twelve, and fifteen members, etc. The largest church. 
(Pataula.) contained only fifty-seven members. The names of 
ministers are John Rushix. Cader A. Parker. Peter Elbrii^e. 
Henry Dikes. James S. Lunsford, Joshua Mercer and Travis 
Everitt, Thirty years thereafter, viz.: in 1864, this body, after 
having dismissed a number of its churches to join other Asso- 
ciations, contained six thousand and fifteen members, showing 
that it was favored by the King in Zion with an energetic min- 
istry, and that the Lord does not despise the day of small 
things. James S. Lunsford was its first moderator, and John 
\V. Cowart. clerk. 

The following year, 1835. twelve additional churches were 
received, and the good cause seemed to be generally prosperous 
within the bounds of the Association. In 1S37. the name of 
Rev. Jonathan Davis appears as a delegate from Palmyra 
church, for the first time, and the following year that of his 
brother. Rev. Jesse M. Davis. Xothing of importance seems to 
have characterized thos : sessi :>ns. In 1839. the name of T~ is 
JIuse is recorded as a delegate from Macedonia church, Early 
county. He does not seem to have been a preacher then, tho 
he may have been such. In the minutes of that year we find 



Bethel Association. 127 

the followiDg item : " Took up the subject of domestic missions 
in the bounds of this Association, and after many remarks, all 
of which were wholly favorable, Resolved, That this Association 
admit under her charge and take the management of domestic 
missions, to supply destitute regions within our bounds and 
around us, and that the churches and brethren be and they are 
hereby, invited to send up such means as they may desire to 
our annual sessions, and we pledge ourselves to manage and 
apply them according to their wishes. Under this resolution 
an executive committee was appointed and other steps taken 
to carry out its spirit. This was the first definite action of the 
body in favor of missions, and this only contemplated domestic 
missions. [It was not until years afterwards that the Associa- 
tion engaged systematically in Indian and foreign missions.] 
This, however, is some evidence of progress, as in 1837 they had 
refused to correspond with the Georgia Baptist State Convention 
by a very decided vote, and had "dropped correspondence with 
the Columbus Association in consequence of their corresponding 
with the Central Association and State Convention," This sa- 
vored rather strongly of anti-ism, yet it may have been some- 
thing else. 

The session for 1840 was held at Pataula church, Randolph 
county. The only items of interest are, that an hour of Sab- 
bath forenoon was spent in prayer for Lumpkin church, (which 
is supposed to have been in trouble,) a report on the subject of 
abolition, and another on that of discipline, all breathing a good 
spirit and advocating correct principles. In 1841, brother 
Lunsford, who had presided over the body from its organiza- 
tion, declined a re-election, and Jonathan Davis was elected 
moderator. On Monday, " Resumed the subject of correspond- 
ence with the Convention, and, on motion, referred the case to 
the consideration of the churches, recommending them to say 
in their next letters whether or not they are willing to become 
a constituent member of the Convention, and if not, say 
whether they are willing to open correspondence or not." A 
committee was appointed to procure minutes and documents of 
the Georgia Baptist Convention and of the Triennial, Conven- 
tion, to examine such documents, and to report at the next 
session. The death of Rev. Jesse Mercer is noticed, and reso- 



128 ' Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

lutions on the subject adopted, among which is the following: 
"Resolved, That in the late death of the Bev. Jesse Mercer, not 
only his native State, but the christian world, has sustained a 
heavy bereavement." The following year, at Blakely, Early 
county, delegates presented themselves from the Georgia Bap- 
tist Convention — James Perryman, Jesse Carter and E. Q. 
Dickinson — "who were cordially received," and elected eight 
delegates to represent them in said Convention, the moderator 
to write a letter, etc. Domestic missions had been prosecuted 
with energy for several years, in connection with which a sys- 
tem of colportage had been adopted, funds for which had been 
sent up by the churches, and thus many valuable religious 
books had been introduced within the bounds of the Associa- 
tion. Light was increasing, the piety of the members im- 
proving, and the body advancing rapidly in influence and use- 
fulness. Among those who seem to have been active and 
leading spirits in those days may be mentioned Dr. John G-. 
Gilbert, Jonathan Davis, Jesse M. Davis, James Mathews, 
James Clarke, Lewis Everingham, J. S. Lunsford, F. F. Seig, 
and, prominent among them all, that indefatigable worker, 
Thomas Muse. 

In 1843, the following query seems to have excited^consider- 
able interest: " Is it orderly and expedient for a Baptist min- 
ister to baptize an individual within the bounds of a Baptist 
church without his becoming a member of the church?" [This 
query is understood to have grown out of the fact of Mr. Luns- 
ford having baptized a Methodist preacher near Lumpkin, if 
the writer's memory is not at fault.] Much discussion ensued, 
and the following answer was adopted: " We believe it disor- 
derly and highly inexpedient. But it is not intended by the 
word disorderly to impute blame to those ministers who may 
have heretofore conscientiously indulged in this practice." 
Great lamentation was made this year over the death of two 
ministers, Woodward and the younger Key, especially over the 
latter, who fell a victim to disease while acting as a domestic 
missionary in a sickly region. 

In the minutes of 1845 there is nothing of interest reported, 
if we may except the report of W. Maund, the domestic mis- 
sionary, who seems to have labored with great zeal and much 



Bethel Association. 129 

success. The following year, at Cuthbert, the session received 
a visit from Eev. C. D. Mallary, " in behalf of the College at 
Penfield," who was most cordially welcomed, and Jhe object for 
which he pleaded indorsed. The following resolutions, on 
other subjects, were alsoadopted : 

1. That we recommend to the churches to deal with and 
reform or exclude from membership, such members as traffic in 
intoxicating liquors. 

2. That we recommend to the ministry and churches within 
our bounds, to turn their attention more carefully to our black 
population, and to provide in the best manner possible for their 
spiritual interests. 

3. That we recommend to our brethren generally, the memoir 
of brother Mercer, written and compiled by brother Mallary." 

At the session for 1817, at Blakely, nothing of special interest 
is reported, except that eleven churches joined, nearly all of 
which had recently been of the Salem United Association, 
(that body, it is presumed, having dissolved) and that brother 
James Matthews was elected moderator, in place of Jonathan 
Davis, who had removed to Alabama. In 1848, at Bethlehem 
church, Stewart county, at the request of the Lumpkin church, 
Carlos W. Stevens was ordained to the work of the ministry ; 
J. H. Campbell preached the sermon, C. A. Tharp made the' 
prayer, F. F. Seig gave the charge and W. L. Crawford extended 
the right hand of fellowship. At the instance of the Palmyra 
church, it w^as proposed that some action be taken in favor of 
"raising a fund for the education of young ministers," on w T hich 
a committee was appointed, who reported favorably. In 1849, 
at Americus, at the request of Palmyra and Albany churches, 
it was agreed to attend to the ordination of E. W. Warren and 
T. D. Matthews, which was done on Sabbath afternoon ; A. T. 
Holmes preached the sermon, Eli Ball led in prayer, J. H. 
Campbell gave the charge and "W". L. Crawford the right hand 
of fellowship. The cause of foreign missions was urged more 
earnestly on the attention of the churches, though the energies 
of the body were mostly given to domestic missions and col- 
portage. In 1850, the session was held at Palmyra, Lee county, 
W. L. Crawford, moderator, E. W. Warren, clerk. " The ques- 
tion of the expediency of appointing a day of fasting and 
9 



130 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

prayer, that the Lord may avert the calamity that seems to 
threaten the perpetuity and welfare of our much loved Union, 
was taken up and the following resolution was offered by brother 
J. I£. Campbell, [the author was then residing at Lumpkin] and 
adopted : Resolved, That in view of the alarming political agi- 
tation of our country, we recommend that Tuesday, the 10th 
day of December, next, (the day on which the State Conven- 
tion meets) be observed by the churches of this body as a day 
of humiliation, fasting and prayer, that the Lord may be gra- 
ciously pleased to guide the rulers and people of our land to 
wise, just and peaceful measures, to restore quiet and harmony 
to our borders, and make us ever to dwell under the shadow of 
his wings, a united and prosperous nation." (The political con- 
vention alluded to adopted what was subsequently known as 
" The Georgia Platform," which has since been recognized as one 
of the ablest documents ever produced in this country, and which 
was received by almost every Southern State as the basis of its 
political action.) " The following query was offered by brother 
James ]\1. Clark: 'Can a church release a member from all 
church connection, and discharge him from church obligations, 
upon his own request, when there are no charges existing 
against said member?' The following committee was appointed 
to present an answer, viz.: J. H. Campbell, James M. Clark and 
F. F. Seig. Answer — 'We answer the above query in the nega- 
tive, for the following reasons : 1. That Christ is King in Zion, 
and the church has no authority from Him to release any of 
His subjects from their allegiance. 2. Because a person in join- 
ing the church, by that act enters into a covenant with the 
Lord, and professes to receive Him as his king, as well as with 
his people, and the church has no right to set aside that cove- 
nant. 3. Because a member may desire to withdraw from the 
church for other reasons than a sense of his own unworthiness, 
and because the establishment of such a principle would open 
the door to numberless evils. If a member desires to with- 
draw, acknowledging himself in an unconverted state, that 
acknowledgment furnishes ground for a charge upon which he 
may be excommunicated.' " The foregoing items comprise all 
that was done at this session, outside of the ordinary routine 
of business. 



Bethel Association. 131 

The year 1851 formed a sort of epoch in the history of this 
Association. It had become a large and unwieldy body ; there 
was much intelligence and wealth among the members of its 
churches, but hitherto they had done nothing commensurate 
with their ability. In the spring of this year, the subject of a 
female college began to be agitated among them. With whom 
the project originated is not material. The writer had been 
in correspondence with some members of the executive com- 
mittee on the subject, and he was invited to meet with that com- 
mittee, and present his views more fully to them. He did meet 
with them at the residence of Eev. Thomas Muse, and they 
determined not to wait for the regular session of the As- 
sociation, but to call a Convention of the churches to take the 
matter into consideration. At the session at Benevolence 
church, in November following, the report of the executive 
committee contained an account of tbat Convention, and rec- 
ommended the subject to the " most prayerful consideration" 
of the Association. As the author intends to devote a few pages 
to a separate history of " The Bethel Female College," it may be 
sufficient, to say here, that the Association approved of the ac- 
tion, agreed to adopt the enterprise, elected a Board of Trus- 
tees, and has ever since fostered the Institution in such a man- 
ner as to make it one of the most flourishing of its kind in this 
State. The reflex influence of the movement had the effect an- 
ticipated and desired by him with whom it originated, and from 
that day onward the spirit and policy of the body have shown 
a marked improvement. 

At the session at Blakely the following year, there is an 
item in the report of the executive committee worthy of notice : 
"The appointment of missionaries to the blacks in our land 
was also referred to us. We appointed none, because we had 
no fund which we could appropriate to that purpose, and we 
had no assurance from the owners of slaves that they would 
support them. The committee are of opinion that this enter- 
prise demands the attention of this body, and that we are, to a 
considerable extent, responsible for the religious training of the 
colored population in our bounds." On this subject the follow- 
ing resolution was adopted: "Resolved, That we attempt to 
raise $250,00 to employ a missionary to the blacks within our 



132 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

bounds, and that, on this amount being raised, the executive 
committee be authorized to employ such missionary, and in- 
struct him as to his field of labor." 

The following still more important resolution, (offered by J. 
H. Campbell,) was also adopted at this session: 

•'Resolved : That this Association will attempt to raise five hun- 
dred dollars by our next meeting, for the support of a missionary in 
Africa, to be adopted by this body as her missionary ; and that a 
committee of five be now appointed to fix upon some individual for 
that service." Committee under this resolution were J. H. Camp- 
bell, A. T. Holmes, T. D. Matthews, Henry Davenport and Wil- 
liam H. Wade. 

The adoption of the foregoing resolution was among the 
most important steps ever taken by this Association, if indeed, it 
was not the most important.. The body, w T ith an intelligent, 
wealthy and enterprising membership in the churches to back 
them, was now fairly committed to the cause of education and of 
missions, both foreign and domestic. It was not suspected at the 
time that the man who was to be selected as their missionary to 
Africa was then a member of the Association, but so it was. It 
was soon ascertained that Mr. William S. Clarke had impres- 
sions to embark in such a mission. He was selected by the com- 
mittee, adopted by the Richmond Board, and the next year, in 
company with Bowen, Dennard and their wives, sailed for Af- 
rica, where he was supported for years by the Bethel Associa- 
tion. 

At the session at Hebron church, Lee county, in 1854, the 
following resolution, offered by Eev. Joseph S. Baker, was 
adopted: "That w^e cordially approve of the object of the Bi- 
ble Eevision Association, and deem it entitled to the contribu- 
tions and prayers of all lovers of the pure w r ord of God." The 
Colporteur, John Martin, reports the sale of SI, 171, 67 worth of 
religious books, in addition to his other valuable services. He 
was continued for the next year. Isaac B. Deavors was em- 
ployed as a missionary to the blacks. Indeed, the body seems 
to have embarked in every important benevolent enteiuDrise. 
Besides her female college, for which she was raising thou- 
sands of dollars annually, she had her Sabbath-school Board, 
her mission to the blacks within her own bounds, her mission 



Bethel Association, 133 

to the Indians, (adopted in 1856,) all of which were being well 
sustained. And then, in 1858, it is recorded in the correspond- 
ing letter, "as we review the past associational year, we feel 
bound to give thanks to our Heavenly Father for the general 
health, the fruitful seasons and abundant crops he has kindly 
bestowed upon us as a people ; but especially are we under ob- 
ligations to him for the additions made to the membership of 
our churches, and for the influence of his blessed Word and 
Spirit in promoting missionary and educational enterprises." 
Eev. R. J. Hogue had been appointed missionary to the Choc- 
taw Indians in 1857, and in 1858 his traveling expenses and 
salary, amounting to $1,150,00, were paid. Among the lead- 
ing minds of the Association in those days, were W. L. Craw- 
ford, Thomas Mus-e, C. D. Mallary, Lott Warren, D. A. Vason, 
H. C. Hornady, J. S. Baker, C. M. Irvin, James M. Clark, W. J. 
Lawton, George F. Cooper, F. F. Seig, E. W. Warren and others, 
showing an array of talents and weight of character found in 
no other Association in the State, unless it may have been the 
Georgia. 

Of late years the body has " cast its bread beside all waters — 
sowed its seed in the morning, and not withheld in the even- 
ing." But a check has been put upon its progress. War has 
crippled its energies for a time, and has cast a dark shadow T 
over all its affairs. Years ago Clarke* returned from Africa and 
has never resumed his labors in that " dark land ;" Hogue was 
compelled to flee from his station among the Indians during 
the war and seek an asylum in Texas ; the College buildings 
were used for military purposes -for years, and were no doubt 
greatly injured ; and then, Death has thrust in its sickle, and 
has cut down many who were once her pillars of strength — 
Mallary is gone ! and Lott Warren is gone ! and Cowdry has 
ceased from his labors ! and Joel Perry is no more ! and James 
Matthews, and Everingham, and Lunsford, and Eushin, and El- 
dridge, and many other " Princes in Israel " have been called 
away from earth to their inheritance on high ! 

*Since dead. 



13-1 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

NEW SUNBURY ASSOCIATION. 

At a regular conference of the Salem Baptist church, Liberty 
county, the subject of forming a new Association of churches 
from the Union, Piedmont and Sunbury Associations, Avas taken 
into consideration. The church decided it would be advanta- 
geous to do so in reference to territory lying between the Sa- 
vannah and Altamaha rivers and the coast on the southeast, to 
a line some seventy-five miles from the coast to the northwest. 
In much of this territory there is a fearful destitution of reli- 
gious services, owing to the desolations produced by General 
Sherman's army. In many cases the houses of worship were 
burned, and the people are too poor to rebuild. It was resolved 
to invite a Convention of churches in the described territory, 
to assemble at Salem church on the 27th and 28th of April, 
1866. Accordingly, at the time appointed, delegates from the 
following churches convened, viz.: From Gum-Branch, Phila- 
delphia, Tom's creek, Antioch and Salem, of the Union Asso- 
ciation, and Jones' creek and Elim, of the Piedmont. 

The Convention was organized by the election of Kev. Lewis 
Price, moderator, and J. L. Shaw, clerk. After due delibera- 
tion, the Convention decided in favor of forming a new Asso- 
ciation, and appointed a meeting for that purpose, to be held 
at Jones' creek church, on Saturday before the fourth Lord's 
day in November, 1866. Brethren Z. L. Boggs, L. Price and 
J. L. Shaw were appointed to notify the Sunbury Association 
of the action of the Convention. 

The Convention met as per adjournment, at Jones' creek, on 
the 24th of November. The introductory sermon was preached 
by Rev. W. O. Darsey. 

In accordance with an invitation issued by Rev. S. Landrum, 
moderator of the Sunbury Association, six churches of that 
body convened also at Jones' creek on the 24th of November. 

Upon consultation, it was decided to dissolve the Sunbury 
Association, which had existed forty-eight years. The reason 
for this action is the fact that the ravages of war had so re- 
duced its strength as to preclude the hope of efficiency, and 
that other churches were willing to unite in forming a new 
body. The delegates from the churches of the Sunbury Asso- 



New Sunhury Association. 135 

ciation accepted the invitation of the Convention in session to 
take part in the deliberations. 

Eev. L f Price presided over the Convention, and J. L. Shaw 
acted as clerk. 

The letters of recommendation to the churches dismissed 
from the Union and Piedmont Associations were read, and the 
names of delegates from eleven churches were enrolled. 

A committee of all the ministers present, viz. : F. E. Sweat, 
W. F. Willis, J. N. Tatum, H. A. Williams, S. Landrum, II. 
Padgett, William Cooper, T. B. Cooper, S. B. Sweat and W. O. 
Darsey, was appointed to prepare papers for the constitution 
of a new Association. After retiring, the committed reported 
the constitution and by-laws of the Georgia Association as a 
platform upon which to constitute. The report was adopted 
unanimously, and it was resolved that the Association now 
formed shall be called the New Sunbury Association. 

Jones' Creek Church, 
Liberty Co., Ga., November 24th, 1866. 

The Convention having closed, the New Sunbury Association 
convened in its first session. The delegates were the same 
which had formed the Convention. 

The Association was organized by the election of S. Lan- 
drum, of Savannah, as moderator, and Eev. Lewis Price as 
clerk. 

The usual committees for such occasions were appointed. 
Eev. W. O. Darsey was appointed to prepare a corresponding 
letter, and it was decided to seek correspondence with the fol- 
lowing Associations, viz. : The Baptist Union, Piedmont and 
Baptist Middle, and messengers were appointed accordingly. 

On Sabbath, Eevs. F. E. Sweat, T. B.Cooper and S. Landrum 
preached, and cash and subscriptions were received for foreign 
missions amounting to $79 33. 

The churches were urged to establish Sabbath-schools and 
to patronize religious papers. The following sentiment was 
adopted in regard to the destitution within their bounds : "Let 
every church be a missionary church, and every preacher be a 
missionary, and much of our destitution will soon be supplied." 



136 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

DIVISION ON MISSIONS." 

By carefully noticing the preceding pages, the reader will 
learn why and when the division among the Baptists of Geor- 
gia occurred, which resulted in the withdrawal of the anti- 
missionaries (or "Hard-shells" as they are sometimes desig- 
nated,) from the body of the denomination. Yet, it is thought 
"best to devote a short chapter to this subject. These brethren 
prefer to call themselves the " Old-side or Primitive Baptists," 
and there is no doubt many of them believe they have a just 
claim to such designation. But in this they are doubtless mis- 
taken. All history shows that the Baptists, far back into the 
remotest ages, have ever been active and zealous in spreading 
abroad the " glorious gospel of the blessed God." In perfect 
accord with their history in this respect, the foregoing pages 
show, that among the first preachers that entered the State, (if 
not the very first) were Daniel Marshall and Edmund Botsford, 
the former of whom had been a volunteer missionary to the 
Mohawk Indians, and whose missionary zeal .impelled him to 
plant the standard of the cross in South Carolina and Georgia, 
and the latter of whom was sent into this State by a mission- 
ary society in Charleston, South Carolina. It will be noticed 
that in 1801, the Georgia Association entertained a proposition 
to form a missionary society, to send the gospel to the Indians, 
"which was unanimously and cordially approbated." In 1804, 
an address from " the General Committee of the Missionary 
Conference at Powelton," was read before said Association, 
which heartily concurred in its leading objects. In 1814, Jesse 
Mercer read the circular and constitution of the "Savannah 
Baptist Society for Foreign Missions" which was approved by 
the Association "most willingly and unanimously," and a time 
appointed to form a society to aid in the glorious effort "to 
evangelize the poor heathen in idolatrous lands." Thus did the 
pioneer Baptists of Georgia act and speak on the subject of 
missions. 

In 1822, the General Association, (now the State Convention,) 
was organized in Powelton, for the purpose, among other things, 
not only of promoting missions, but also ministerial education. 
For several years, the only Associations connected with it were 



Division on Missions. 137 

the Georgia, the Ocmulgee and the Sunbury — those who were 
decided missionaries in the other Associations representing 
themselves therein through missionary societies. In 1827, at 
Antioch church, Morgan county, several churches of the Oc- 
mulgee Association petitioned that body to withdraw from the 
General Association, on account of their opposition to missions 
and ministerial education, which petitions were laid over till 
the next session, when the question of withdrawal was again 
discussed. But it was not till 1830, at Harmony church, Put- 
nam county, that the step was taken. This was followed by 
years of dissension and strife. In 1835, the body passed a res- 
olution of "non -fellowship with all benevolent societies, so 
called," and, in 1837, she declares such societies "un scriptural." 

And so the work of opposition went on. Several churches 
withdrew from the Ocmulgee and joined others from the Flint 
river in forming the Central Association. The churches and 
Associations were thrown into great confusion, many being at 
a loss what to do. The Ebenezer was exceedingly vacillating 
for several years, and did not decide in favor of "the Institu- 
tions of the day" till 1836, upon which seven churches with- 
drew, and set up as "The true Ebenezer Association. " The Yel- 
low river Association passed resolutions of non-fellowship with 
all in favor of missions, etc., in 1836. This subject had agitated 
the sessions of the Flint river Association for years, till in 1837, 
at Holly Grove church, Monroe county, the body refused to 
pass resolutions of non-fellowship; whereupon fifteen churches 
withdrew, and organized an anti-mission Association, the To- 
walagi, which adopted "The 13th Article" as a part of their 
creed. (There were twelve articles in the confession of Faith 
usually adopted by the churches and Associations of those 
days, and this 13th article became notorious as expressing the 
opposition of the Hard-shells to all kinds of benevolent insti- 
tutions.) The regular missionary churches never declared 
non-fellowship with their anti-missionary brethren. Such dec- 
larations invariably came from the other side. And this is the 
attitude of the parties now. 

Thus it may be seen, that the opposition to missions, Bible 
societies, Sunday-schools, ministerial education, etc., began to 
show itself several years before it culminated in the actual di- 



138 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

vision of the churches and Associations, which occurred mostly 
from 1836 to 1838. 

The most prominent and influential preachers among the 
anti-missionaries in those days were James Henderson, Joel 
Colley, John Blackstone, William Moseley and Thomas C. Trice. 
The three former have been dead many years, and it is worthy 
of special notice that the two latter, who moved to Alabama 
since or near the close of the war, identified themselves fully 
with the Missionary Baptists of that State ; Mr. Trice having 
joined a missionary church and Association. They, too, have 
both gone to their long home. 



LITERARY INSTITUTIONS. 



MEECEE TJNIVEESITT. 

THE Georgia Baptist Convention, at its annual session in 
the spring of 1831, at Big Buckhead church, Burke county, 
adopted a resolution to establish a classical and theological 
school, the main object of which was the improvement of the 
rising ministry. If memory is not at fault, the resolution was 
offered by Eev. Adiel Sherwood. That school was located in 
Greene county, at what is now known as the village of Pen- 
field, and was called Mercer Institute, in honor of Eev. Jesse 
Mercer. The village was named Penfield, in honor of Mr. 
Josiah Penfield, a deacon of the Baptist church in Savannah, 
who had bequeathed to the Georgia Baptist Convention, for 
ministerial education, the sum of twenty-five hundred dollars; 
this amount to be paid by his executors, when the Convention, 
or its friends should have raised an equal amount for the same 
object. Mercer Institute was opened as a Manual Labor School, 
the 2d Monday in January, 1833, with thirty-nine pupils, (seven 
of whom had the ministry in view,) Eev. B. M. Sanders, Prin- 
cipal, and one assistant. Its only buildings were "two double 
log cabins," which served as dwelling, dining-room, dormitories, 
etc., for both teachers and students. This unpretending Sem- 
inary subsequently became Mercer University — how, we pro- 
ceed to show. (For a more full account of Mercer Institute, 
see sketch of Eev. B. M. Sanders.) 

For the following facts, the author draws almost exclusively 
from reports adopted by the Georgia Baptist Convention, which 
he uses freely without further notice. In the year 1835, there 
was an effort made by a portion of the Presbyterian denomi- 
nation to establish a college under their auspices at Washing- 
ton, Wilkes county. A considerable subscription was made up 
for the enterprise, but the Washington project failed, and their 
Institution was located at Midway, near Milledgeville, and is 

139 



1 40 Georg la Baptists — Historical. 

now known as the Oglethorpe University. (If any shall infer 
that the Presbyterians thus became the leaders of the Baptists 
in the matter of a denominational school in Georgia, it is only 
necessary to remind them that "Mercer Institute " had been 
in successful operation more than two years. The Baptists 
were foremost in their educational movements in this State.) 
In the meantime the inquiry Was propounded, "why may not 
the Baptists have a college at Washington?" To use the lan- 
guage of the venerable Mercer, " the notion took like wild-fire." 
Large portions of the subscription made for the Presbyterian 
project were transferred, and new ones added. Rev. William 
H. Stokes and Dr. William H. Pope were particularly active in 
forwarding the enterprise, the latter performing much volun- 
tary service in getting up the subscription. 

In October of the same year, the project was brought to the 
notice of the G-eorgia Association, at its annual session in Au- 
gusta, and was favorable entertained by that body. 

The next year the plan was submitted to the Convention 
at its session in Talbotton, May, 1836. A subscription of 
some forty or fifty thousand dollars was tendered to the 
denomination, on condition that they should establish a college 
at Washington. The proposition was accepted, and it was 
agreed that the institution should be known as " The Southern 
Baptist College." Agents were sent out to increase the sub- 
scription ; a charter was obtained from the Legislature; and at 
the next annual session of the Convention, at Ruckersville, 
Elbert county, a subscription of $100,000 was reported as hav- 
ing been made up, this being ^the amount agreed on as essen- 
tial to justify the commencement of the enterprise. Of this 
amount about $40,000 were subscribed in Wilkes county, Bev. 
Jesse Mercer having increased his first subscription of $3,000, 
to the liberal amount of $10,000. 

About this time a terrible financial crisis had overtaken the 
country, followed by a pecuniary pressure, well calculated to 
dampen the zeal of the most ardent friends of the college. 
Many began to fear it could not be sustained, and at the same 
time aiford to Mercer Institute the support it so much needed, 
and who finally urged the abandonment of the Washington loca- 
tion and concentration on the Institute. This produced some 



Mercer University. 141 

warm discussions in the Board of Trustees, (which had been 
appointed by the Convention,) Sanders being in favor of .Pen- 
field, Mark A. Cooper in favor of White Hall, near what is now 
the city of Atlanta, and Mercer, with some others, strongly op- 
posing any change. While this subject was under discussion, 
on one occasion, the venerable Mercer became quite impatient, 
if not indignant, and withdrew from his seat as chairman, re- 
fusing to preside. As soon as this ebullition of feeling subsided, 
however, being urged to resume the chair, he did so. Nothing 
definite, however, was done at that meeting, which was held 
at Washington. But at a subsequent meeting of the board, 
August, 1837, at Athens, the following resolutions were adoped 
by a large majority : 

"Resolved, That the important business of raising and endow- 
ing a Southern Baptist College in Georgia, intrusted to the care 
of this Board, has been maturely examined and inquired into. 
They have duly considered the means and resources required 
therefor, and are of opinion that it is inexpedient to undertake 
the building of a college under present circumstances. The 
reasons that have brought the Board to this conclusion are, in 
part, the following: First, the embarrassment of the times; 
second, the differing views of brethren in regard to the plan 
proposed; lastly, the inadequacy of the means in hand. 

u Be it therefore resolved further. That the whole subject be re- 
ferred to the executive committee of the Baptist Convention 
for the State of Georgia, with the recommendation of this Board 
that they surrender the present charter and abandon the enter- 
prise, or seek to set on a footing a plan that will command the 
resources demanded for the accomplishment of the great under- 
taking." 

By virtue of this movement, the Washington project was vir- 
tually dead, though the Board of Trustees went through the 
formality of surrendering up, by resolution, the charter and 
project to the Convention. 

(The friends at Talbotton had made a vigorous effort to have 
the Southern Baptist College located at that place, and Bev. 
Robert Fleming attended the Convention at Euckersville, in 
1837, with a subscription of about $50,000 00 ; but this overture 
seems to have met with but little encouragement.) 



142 Georgia Baptists— Historical. 

The question then arose, shall the important design of estab- 
lishing a Baptist College in Georgia be abandoned? The ex- 
ecutive committee, with many others, felt that it must not be 
given up, and at once resolved to carry out the main design, or 
make a serious attempt to do so, by connecting a collegiate de- 
partment with the Mercer Institute, still continuing the aca- 
demic feature of the seminary. This thej T believed they had 
the power to do, inasmuch as "the ultimate and conclusive di- 
rection of all the interests and operations of the institution" 
had been vested by the Legislature "in the executive com- 
mittee, as agents of the Convention," and they had been "left 
at liberty to alter or amend, as expediency might seem to re- 
quire." As already stated, in August, 1837, the Trustees of the 
Southern Baptist College abandoned that project and surren- 
dered their charter to the Convention. The executive com- 
mittee decided, in September, to take immediate steps to elevate 
the Mercer Institute to the rank of a University, and to apply 
to the next Legislature for a charter. This charter was ob- 
tained in December following, and is in these words : 

"AN ACT to amend an Act entitled an Act to incorporate the Bap- 
tist Convention of the State of Georgia. 

" Section 1. Be it enacted by the Senate and Souse of Represen- 
tatives of the State of Georgia, and it is hereby enacted by the au- 
thority of the same, That if, by the Act entitled an Act to incor- 
porate the Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia, said 
Convention or their executive committee are invested with 
taxing power, all such power is hereby annulled and made void. 

" Sec. 2. And it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, 
That the executive committee of the Baptist Convention of 
the State of Georgia shall have power to establish and endow a 
collegiate institution, to be known by the name of the Mercer 
University, on the premises owned by said Convention in 
Greene couuty ; and said committee are hereby authorized to 
make all necessary by-laws and regulations for the government 
of said University : Provided, they be not repugnant to the Con- 
stitution or laws of the State, or of the United States, until a 
Board of Trustees shall be appointed by the aforesaid Baptist 
Convention. 



Mercer University. 143 

" Sec. 3. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, 
That the Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia may, at 
its next meeting, or at any subsequent meeting, elect a Board 
of Trustees for the said University, consisting of not less than 
fifteen nor more than thirty-one in number, who shall, or their 
successors in office, be a body politic and corporate, by the name 
of the Trustees of Mercer University, and as such they shall 
be capable of and liable in law to sue and be sued, to plead and 
be impleaded, and shall be authorized to use a common seal, to 
hold all manner of property, both real and personal, for the 
purpose of making a permanent endowment of said institution, 
and to raise funds for the support of the same, and for the erec- 
tion of buildings, or to confer literary degrees, and to exercise 
such other power, not inconsistent with the laws of this State 
or of the United States, as the aforesaid Convention shall see 
fit to vest in their hands. 

" Sec 4. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, 
That the aforesaid Convention shall be authorized to determine 
the manner in which said Board of Trustees shall be perpetua- 
ted, and the character of the individuals from whom they may 
be chosen. 

" Sec 5. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, 
That, upon the premises now owned by the Baptist Convention 
of the State of Georgia, in Greene county, or that may here- 
after come into their possession, no person shall, by himself, 
servant or agent, keep, have, use or maintain a gaming house, 
or room of any description, or permit, with his knowledge, any 
house or room occupied or owned by him to be used by any 
person whatever as a place of gaming, nor shall any person 
upon the premises aforesaid, by himself, servant or agent, keep, 
employ or allow, with his knowledge, to be kept or employed 
on the premises he may occupy, any faro table, billiard table, 
E O table, ABC table, or any other table of like character, 
nor shall any person, by himself, servant or agent, upon the 
premises now owned by the said Convention in Greene county, 
or that may hereafter come into thoir possession, to be allowed 
to sell ardent spirits, wine, cordials, or any other intoxicating 
drinks whatever, nor permit the same to be done with his or 
her knowledge or approbation, on the premises which he or 



144 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

she may occupy : Provided, however, that the Trustees of the 
Mercer University may have power to authorize any individual 
to sell ardent spirits, wines, etc., upon their premises for medi- 
cal and sacramental purposes. Any person violating the pro- 
hibitions contained in this section shall be liable to be indicted 
for a misdemeanor before the Superior Court, and, on convic- 
tion, shall be fined in a sum not less than one thousand dollars 
for each and every offense. 

" Sec. 8. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That 
the executive committee of the aforesaid Convention, in exe- 
cuting titles for lots which they may sell from time to time, 
shall have power to insert such condition as may tend further 
to defend the premises aforesaid from the nuisances specified in 
the foregoing sections of this act. 

" Joseph Day, 
"Speaker of the House of Representatives. 
" Robert M. Echols, 
" President of the Senate. 
"Assented to, 22d December, 1837. 

" George R. Gilmer, Governor." 

As the statement is sometimes made that the University was 
chartered in 1838, I call attention to the fact that the charter 
was obtained in 1837, and not in 1838. Under this charter, the 
" Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia," at its session in 
1838, elected the following gentlemen as the 

FIRST BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF MERCER UNIVERSITY. 

Jesse Mercer, C. D. Mallary, Y. R. Thornton, Jonathan Davis, 
John E. Dawson, Malcom Johnson, W. D. Cowdrey, J. H. T. 
Kilpatrick, J. H. Campbell, S. G. Hillyer, Absalom Janes, R. Q. 
Dickinson, William Richards, Thomas Stocks, T. G. Janes, J. 
M. Porter, Lemuel Greene, James Davant, F. W. Cheney, E. H. 
Macon, William Lumpkin, J. G-. Polhill, Lott Warren, M. A. 
Cooper, J. B. Walker, I. T. Irwin, W. H. Pope. 

To this Board all the funds of the University, and its entire 
management for the future, were soon thereafter turned over, 
and it has been the custom of the Convention ever since to 
elect a new Board every three years. [The name of the insti- 



Mercer University, 145 

tution had been changed by the executive committee from the 
" Mercer Institute " to that of the " Mercer University " in Sep- 
tember, 1837.] In July, 1838, the newly elected trustees met at 
Penfield, organized for business, and received the important trust 
thenceforth committed to their care. This was not done with- 
out j 'event prayer to God for wisdom and grace. Being one of 
that " original panel," the author speaks advisedly when he de- 
clares that the sessions of the Board are always opened and 
closed with prayer, and that he cannot recall an instance when 
any important action has been taken without first imploring 
the divine direction and aid. When it is remembered that 
Mercer, Stocks, Mallary, Thornton, etc., were leading spirits 
among us, it is not to be wondered at that such a custom was 
inaugurated. Perhaps no body of men ever labored together 
more harmoniously during so long a period in the management 
of a public institution ; and though their management may not 
in all cases have met the views of interested or disinterested 
parties, it may with safety be recorded that it has generally 
been such as to promote the- usefulness and success of the insti-. 
tution. 

Thomas Stocks was the first president of the board of trus- 
tees, and has been continued in that position until quite re- 
cently, when his declining health .has disqualified him for it. 
Four agents, Posey, Conner, Davis and Mallary, were employed 
in getting the subscriptions to the Washington project trans- 
ferred and in obtaining new subscriptions. From the sources 
of information at hand, it is believed that by the end of the 
first year of its existence the University had been endowed to 
the amount of about $120,000 00. This includes the legacies of 
Eev. Jesse Mercer. Among those who contributed large amounts, 
$1,000 00 and upwards, towards this endowment, were the fol- 
lowing : Cullen Battle, E. Q.Dickinson, Jesse Mercer, W. H. 
Pope, James Boykin, T. G-. Janes, Absalom Janes, W. Peek, 
Solomon Graves and John B. Walker. Many others were 
equally liberal, considering their ability. But those men were 
both able and willing, and so the work of endowment went on 
successfully. 

The institution lost heavily by the late war, but the report 
of the trustees to the Georgia Baptist Convention, at Macon, 
10 



146 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

April, 1866, shows the University to be worth in good stocks 
and securities, $144,793 47. 

The following gentlemen have been officers of the University : 

Presidents — B. M. Sanders, Otis Smith, J. L. Dagg, N. M. 
Crawford, II. H. Tucker. 

Professors and Assistant Professors — I. 0. McDaniel, J. W. At- 
taway, W". J. Hard, S. P. Sanford, Albert Williams, Eobert 
Tolefree, B. O. Pearce, P. H. Mell, W. E. Posey, B. T. Mosele}', 
S. B. Miller, I. D. Martin, S. G. Hillyer, J. E. Willet, U. W. 
Wise, H. H. Tucker, W. G. Woodfin. 

Professors in Theological Department — Adiel Sherwood, J. L. 
Dagg, J. L. Keynolds, William Williams, S. Gr. Hillyer. 

The " manual labor " feature of Mercer Institute was con- 
tinued in Mercer University for several years, though it was 
regarded by many as being not only unprofitable but positively 
injurious ; and, after eleven years' experience, it was " indefi- 
nitely suspended." At a meeting of the Board at Penfield, Decem- 
ber 18, 1844, the following report was adopted : " The com- 
mittee on manual labor made the following report : Whereas, 
the manual labor department of Mercer University has been 
sustained at a very heavy expense — an expense which the 
present state of the funds will not justify, and has in our judg- 
ment materially retarded the growth of our institution, after as 
favorable an experiment as we have been able to make of the, 
scheme ; and whereas, the contributors to the University fund, 
so far as they have been called upon, express themselves with 
almost entire unanimity ready to concur in any measure in 
reference to the system which the Board of Trustees may deem 
essential to the prosperity of the institution ; and whereas, the 
Board of Trustees have found themselves, under all the circum- 
stances, unable to accomplish, to any desirable extent, the im- 
portant and benevolent designs for which it was originally or- 
ganized — be it therefore Resolved, That this department be and 
is hereby indefinitely suspended." 

The brother who furnishes me the foregoing item adds : 
" Private. — Being a student at the time, I was one of the pall- 
bearers at the funeral of manual labor, and a more joyful fu- 
neral, perhaps, was never held ; albeit the old system did my 
health and constitution good. Bequiescat in pace." So the stu- 



Mercer University. 147 

dents seem to have held a "joyful funeral " over the old ex- 
ploded manual labor system. The wonder now is, that it was 
ever- inaugurated. 

The institution continued to grow in public favor and use- 
fulness until the late war threw its shadow across its path. As 
nearly all our male colleges were suspending operations, the 
trustees of Mercer University met in Atlanta at an early period 
of the war, and resolved not to suspend. This was deemed the 
more necessary in order to afford educational facilities to any 
young men who might have it in their power to prosecute their 
studies. At a later period of the war, a resolution was adopted 
granting tuition gratis to all sick and wounded soldiers. Many 
of this class have availed themselves of this offer. The institu- 
tion continued its operations throughout the war. 

The College buildings consist of the President's house and 
office, chapel, a large building occupied by the family of one of 
the professors and by students, library and apparatus building, 
building for recitations, and two society halls — all spacious, and 
most of them of brick. They are situated in a beautiful campus 
of about four acres, which is well shaded by venerable oaks. 

The College and society libraries contain about ten thousand 
volumes of well selected and standard literature. 

The apparatus has cost about $3,000 00, and is ample for all 
purposes of illustration. 

The grand purpose of the founders of Mercer University was 
the promotion of theological education — the improvement of the 
rising ministry of the State and of the South. But the theo- 
logical department has been overshadowed by the literary. 
Yery few have graduated in the theological department ; yet 
God has accomplished the object for which the institution was 
organized in another way — one hundred and nineteen of its pupils 
having engaged in the sacred calling, as the list of names ap- 
pended to this sketch shows. No doubt many other sons of the 
University have become ministers of the gospel, whose names 
the author has not been able to procure. Why God has thus 
measurably diverted the University from the work it was 
originally designed to accomplish, is a question the present 
writer is willing to leave for the future historian. It is matter 
of profound gratitude to God that he has permittedthe institu- 



148 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

tion to be raised up, and that he has vouchsafed to it thus far 
so much prosperity and usefulness. It may be his will that it 
shall now start on a fresh career of glory. Or, as all the insti- 
tutions of our countryseem to be tottering to their base, it may 
be his will that Mercer University shall go down in the general 
wreck, and that her history shall close here. 

The foregoing was written several years ago, and as some 
important things in the history of Mercer University have 
transpired of late, it is thought best they should be recorded. 
The denomination in the State have never been fully united as 
to the location of the University at Penfield. The consequence 
has been that the question of removal has been agitated in the 
papers and in the State Convention from time to time for years 
past. The advocates of removal gradually increased, until the 
session of the Convention in Newnan, April, 1870, on motion of 
Rev. C. M. Irwin, it was resolved, by a vote of seventy-one to 
sixteen, to remove the University from Peniield to such other 
location as might afterwards be selected. A committee was 
appointed to co-operate with the Trustees in selecting such lo- 
cation. A meeting of said committee and the Trustees jointly 
was held in Atlanta, (date not known,) and fixed upon Macon 
as the future home of the University. The citizens of Penfield 
instituted legal proceedings to prevent removal. The trustees 
suspended the exercises of the University, and the Faculty 
opened an institution in Macon, on their own account and at 
their own risk, which was styled Mercer College. The Trus- 
tees applied to Judge Cole of the Superior Court of Bibb coun- 
ty, for such an amendment of their charter as would authorize 
the removal, which was resisted by the citizens of Penfield. 
The application was granted, whereupon the citizens of Pen- 
field appealed to the Supreme Court of the State. 

Thus matters stood when the Convention met at Cartersville, 
in April, 1871. The report of the Trustees was referred to a 
special committee, which committee, in turn, reported, indors- 
ing the action of the Trustees in deciding upon Macon as the 
future home of the University, and recommending, as a compro- 
mise with the people of Penfield, the establishment of a High 
School at that place by the Trustees of the University, on con- 



Mercer University. 149 

dition that they withdraw their opposition to removal and cease 
the litigation of the question in the Courts. 

The Convention adjourned, sine die, at about ten o'clock at 
night, April 24th, after which a copsultation was held between 
the Trustees of the University and the agents of the citizens 
of Penfield. After full and free discussion, the following pre- 
amble and resolution were offered by Dr. W. T. Brantly, sec- 
onded by Eev. M. J. Wellborn, and adopted: 

"Whereas, The Georgia Baptist Convention directed the 
Board of Trustees of Mercer University to establish an insti- 
tution at Penfield, to be known as Mercer High School : 

"Besolved, That such an institution be opened on the first 
Tuesday in February next, and that two teachers shall be em- 
ployed at a salary of six hundred dollars a year each, and all 
the tuition money : Provided, the condition on which such school 
was to be established shall then exist." 

The foregoing resolution was indorsed as follows : " The within 
resolution having been passed by the Board of Trustees, the 
undersigned, on behalf of the citizens of Penfield, hereby pledge 
themselves to withdraw all litigation in reference to the remo- 
val of Mercer University, thus leaving no obstacle to the open- 
ing of said school at the specified time. 

(Signed) " K. L. McWhorter, 

" Thomas P. Janes, 
"James K. Sanders, 

" Committee." 

At this consummation, a motion was made that Dr. Brantly 
lead in a prayer of thanksgiving. The motion was adopted, 
and all present knelt in devout prayer. The citizens of Pen- 
field, in due time, ratified this compact in a public meeting; 
and, in July following, the Supreme Court announced the with- 
drawal of the case and the dismission thereof from its docket. 
Thus was the question of removal settled. 

Mercer University, as such, was opened in Macon, in John- 
ston's building, in October, 1871. The present Faculty consists 
of the following gentlemen : 

A. J. Battle, D. D., President, and Professor of Moral Phi- 
losophy. 



150 Georgia Bajrtists — Historical. 

S. P. Sanford, A. M., Professor of Mathematics. 

J. E. Willet, A. M., Professor of Natural Science. 

W. G. Woodfin, A. M., Professor of Greek Language and 
Literature. 

J. J. Brantly, D. D., Professor of Belles Letter. 

E. A. Steed, A. M., Professor of Latin Language and Litera- 
ture. 

Number of students on the catalogue in the early part of 
1S74, about one hundred and thirty. 

Value of the property and assets of the University, $315,- 
550 49. The Convention also owns a Permanent Fund for Edu- 
cation, $25,659 83. The main college building will cost, when 
completed, about one hundred thousand dollars. 

MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL 

Who have been educated at Mercer Institute, or Mercer Uni- 
versity : 

W. D. Atkinson, T. S. Allen, T. C. Boykin, D. E. Butler, J. B. 
Bartlett, W. C. Boone, E. B. Barrett, C. B. Barrow, M. B. L. 
Binion, J. C. Binns, J. C. Brown, Y. A. Bell, J. L. Blitch, A. 
Buckner, T. J. Beck, E. L. Compere, T. B. Cooper, William 
Cooper, W. H. Clarke, A. E. Cloud, J. T. Clarke, M. P. Cain, 
A. B. Campbell, C. D. Campbell, W. T. Chase, P. B. Chandler, 

A. K. Callaway, E. R, Carswell, E. J. Coats, J. E. Cowen, S. P. 
Callaway, G. M. Campbell, J. F. Dagg, W. H. Davis, W. O. Dar- 
sey, Lewis Everingham, T. J. Earle, S. D. Everett, J. W. Elling- 
ton, T. F. Faulkner, J. EL Fortson, Y. A. Gaskill, John C. Gunn, 
AY. W. Gwinn, J. A. Garrison, B. C. Greene, Noah P. Hill, 

Hightower, J. O. Hixon, J. P. Hilldrup, E. Hedden, J. Hed- 

den, John Howell, John Harris, Jr., B. F. Jessnp, Edgar Jewell, 
L. R. L. Jennings, J. C. Johnson, W. L. Kilpatrick, J. H. Kil- 
patrick, S. Landrum, T. \Y. Lanier, A. L. Moncrief, William 
Murrow, J. S. Murrow, G. R. McCall, M. N. McCall, A. M. Mar- 
shall, U. M. Mathews, George Mathews, T. D. Martin, T. J. 
Martin. A. S. Morall, J. G. MciSTorton, W. A. Overton. O. C. 
Pope, S. D. Paschall, J. H. Preston, J. W. Pullen, A. D. Phillips, 

B. W. Phillips, J. G. Byals, P. B. Robinson, T. A. Reid, S. W. 
Stephens, A. T. Spalding, J. H. Sullivan, J. Shackelford, W. T. 
H.Scott, M. H. Sanders, L._W. Smith, W. Singletion, J. M. 



Heam School. 151 

Stillwell, T. F. Sturgiss. L. W. Stephens, Columbus Smith, T. 
H. Stout, E. A. Steed, Carlos W. Stevens, W. M. Tryon, B. F. 
Tharp, J. H. Toole, A. S. Tatum, A. E. Yandivere, J. B. Yaughn, 
Jesse M. Wood, A. S. Worrell, T. TJ. Wilkes, W. C. Wilkes, G. 
T. Willborn, Hillman Williams, W. J. Wootten, T. B. West, J. 
H. West, J. J. Wallace, C. C. White, J. F. Willson, J. G. Wil- 
liams and J. H. Weaver. 

HEARN SCHOOL. 

The materials at hand for a history of this school are quite 
meagre, but they are such as the author has been able to obtain, 
and are gathered exclusively from the minutes of the Georgia 
Baptist Convention. It is mentioned at the session at La- 
Grange, in 1842, when aid is invoked for it by Rev. Humphrey 
Posey, to save it from being sold by the sheriff. It seems not 
to have been many years in operation at that time, though it 
had, by some mismanagement, become involved in debt. The 
writer proposed to raise the money needed (the amount not 
recollected) by the payment of fifty dollars each" by a certain 
number. The proposition was acceded to, and the school re- 
lieved of present embarrassment. It was then a Manual Labor 
School, but this system seems to have been abandoned a few 
years afterwards. It was turned over to the Georgia Baptist 
Convention, who were authorized to appoint its Trustees, etc., 
in 1844. Mr. A. Fitzgerald, a beneficiary, is mentioned as be- 
ing a student here in 1847. 

The year preceding, viz.: in 1846, it is mentioned that Mr. 
Lott Hearn, of Putnam county, its liberal patron, and for whom 
it was named, had died, and the. treasurer had commenced suit 
against his executor for a portion of his bequest to the institu- 
tion, then due. It was under the instruction of Mr. Alfred J. 
King and Mr. Oliver P. Fannin. It had opened a department 
for the indigent deaf and dumb, under State patronage, and six 
or eight of this unfortunate class had been removed thither 
from Hartford, Conn.* Mr. O. P. Fannin, for many years prin- 
cipal of the State Asylum for the Deaf and Dumb established 
at this place, was their first teacher. 

*This Asylum for the Deaf and Dumb was originated by the Author, then State 
Agent for this class. 



1 52 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

The school was in a highly prosperous condition (still under 
Mr. King,) in 1848, with sixty students in attendance. $5,412 00, 
in part of the Hearn legacy of twelve thousand five hundred dol- 
lars, had been paid. The year following, the school was still in 
a flourishing condition, though the principal teacher, owing to 
some unhappy difficulties in the community, had resigned. 
(There were some restless spirits thereabouts in those days.) 
About seven thousand dollar 's, besides its landed interests, etc., 
w^re in hand. 

In 1850, some of the members of the executive committee of 
the Convention visited Cave Spring "to aid in healing the dis- 
sensions that have, for so long a time, existed amongst breth- 
ren " there. What success, if any, attended their errand of 
love, does not appear. Mr. J. S. Ingraham had been secured as 
the principal, and the school was " in a highly prosperous state." 

For a series of years the institution continued in a prosper- 
ous condition under Mr. Ingraham, generally varying from fifty 
to sixty pupils, notwithstanding the persistent opposition ar- 
rayed against it by the " restless spirits " already alluded to. 
Its income more than met all its expenses, and its Trustees 
were enabled to take an interest; for the accommodation of its 
pupils, in a brick meeting-house, built by the Baptist church, 
and also to provide a comfortable residence, lot, etc., for the use 
of its excellent principal and his family. 

In 1855, the school was still under Mr. Ingraham, and was 
doing well in all respects. Sixty-six pupils had been received 
during the year, among whom were two young preachers, ben- 
eficiaries of the Convention. It was clear of debt, and its in- 
come exceeded its expenses, enabling its managers to add, by 
purchase, another lot of ground, so that, in all, the school owned 
about forty-five acres. The buildings and premises were in good 
repair. The report of the following year is but a repetition of 
the foregoing. 

Mr. Ingraham continued at the head of the school until the 
close of 1857, when Mr. A. J. King, its former principal, was 
again called to the charge of it, under w 7 hom prosperity still 
attended it, both in its patronage and finances. The number of 
pupils admitted was eighty-four, its endowment had increased, 



Hearn School. 153 

and "various additions and improvements in apparatus and 
school furniture had been made." 

Mr. King resigned again at the close of his second year, and 
Mr. James Courtney Brown, a young man of unusual ability, 
and a graduate of Mercer University, was called to the charge 
of the institution in the beginning of 1860. His administration 
gave entire satisfaction ; but, in the spring of 1862, he and most 
of his older pupils having joined the army of the Confederate 
States, the exercises of the school were suspended, and the re- 
maining pupils turned over to the Cave Spring Female School. 

In 1863, the Hearn School and the female school at Cave 
Spring were united temporarily, under Kev. S. G. Hilly er, D, D. 
There were thirty-five pupils in the male department, and- the 
smiles of providence, as heretofore, seemed to rest upon the en- 
terprise. .That fall, however, it became necessary again to sus- 
pend the exercises, in consequence of the proximity of the con- 
tending armies. How long this suspension continued, the writer 
is not informed. It is supposed, however, to have lasted until 
the close of the war. The buildings were much injured and 
the library and apparatus destroyed by the enemy. The funds 
of the school in the hands of the Trustees were invested in 
Confederate securities, and are thus lost. The amount lost was 
about four thousand dollars. The school, however, still has 
$12,000 00 of the Hearn legacy in charge of the Georgia Bap- 
tist Convention, and its landed estate, amounting to forty or 
fifty acres. Like all other institutions in our oppressed section, 
it is under a cloud now. But it has already accomplished much 
good, and it is hoped that the prayers and benefactions of the 
sainted Hearn, which are held in sweet remembrance on high, 
may be the means of restoring to it the sunshine of prosperity 
which it enjoyed for so many years. 

The history of this school should prompt men of wealth to 
bequeath a portion of their estates, at least, in such manner as 
may be productive of good after they are gone, and as may per- 
petuate their memory in the earth. 

This school was, in 1873, under the care of Mr. P. J. King, as 
principal, and was in a prosperous condition. Its financial con- 
dition is also good. 



154 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

CHEROKEE BAPTIST COLLEGE. 

The project for establishing this school originated with Gen- 
eral John H. Rice, a lawyer of considerable talents and promi- 
nence. Having made good progress in raising subscriptions 
for the object, he brought the matter to the attention of the 
Middle Cherokee Association, which body entered heartily into 
the project. It was not until the first College building (which 
was destroyed by fire,) had been commenced, that the Cherokee 
Baptist Convention was formed, which • afterwards had the 
power of appointing its Board of Trustees, and which adopted 
the enterprise as its own. I am indebted for these facts to 
Rev. A. W. Buford. The following facts are gathered from the 
records of the Trustees : 

The charter of this institution before me is not dated, though 
it is supposed to have been granted in 1853. The names of the 
corporators, or first Board of Trustees, are : John Crawford, 
John H. Rice, T. J. Wofford, R. W. Young, D. B. Conyers, G. 
W. Tumlin, L. Tumlin, Z. Edwards, W. T. Wofford, W. C. 
Wylly, Elisha King, M. A. Cooper, J. W. Lewis, T. G. Barron, 
J. Milner, J. Boyle, Ira R. Foster, Farish Carter, E. M. Gault, 
E. Dyer, G. W. Selvidge, L. W. Cook, W. Martin, S. S. Bailey 
and William Peck, any seven of whom were to constitute a 
quorum for the transaction of ordinary business. It provides 
" that the College buildings and grounds on which it stands 
shall never be subject to levy and sale under and by virtue of 
any contract, agreement or promise that said Trustees may 
make ; and if at any time said College shall be abandoned for the 
space of three years as' a male college, then it shall revert to 
and become the property of the contributors in proportion to 
the amount they subscribed." 

A new Board of Trustees was elected by the Cherokee Bap- 
tist Convention in 1856, and again in 1859, and it is inferred 
their election w'as intended to take place triennially, though 
nothing definite is said on the subject in the records of the 
College. 

The first Board was organized at Cassville, December 22d, 
1853, by electing John Crawford, President, John H. Rice, Sec- 
retary, and James Milner ; Treasurer. A committee was ap- 



Cherokee Baptist College. 155 

pointed to contract for a college building, the cost of which was 
not to exceed ten thousand dollars. 

In March, 1854, it was announced that Dr. R. H. Patton's 
farm, adjoining Cassville, containing two hundred and seven 
acres, had been purchased, for which it was agreed to pay him 
|4,500 00. Thirty acres were reserved for college purposes, 
and the balance was laid off in lots and offered for sale. How 
far they were successful in selling these lots, and what amount 
was realized on them, are not matters of record. 

In June following, a contract for the erection of a College 
building had been made with Joseph Chapman and Thomas 
Hawkins, said building to be completed by the 1st of October, 
1855, the price to be paid $9,500 00. The Masonic fraternity 
of Cassville were invited to lay the corner-stone of said building 
the 4th of July following. 

Rev. N. M. Crawford was elected to the presidency of the 
College, who finally declined the appointment. In August fol- 
lowing, Rev. Thomas Rambant was elected Professor of Lan- 
guages, Rev. W. H. Robert, Professor of Mathematics, and Rev. 
B. W. Whilden, Adjunct Professor, all of whom accepted, and 
commenced operations February 6, 1856, with forty students. 

On the night of January 4th, 1856, the College building, in 
process of erection, was entirely destroyed by fire. Where- 
upon the contractors were conferred with and offered an ex- 
tension of time for the fulfillment of their contract, which was 
accepted by Mr. Chapman but declined by Mr. Hawkins, who 
seems to have abandoned the contract. A building was rented 
in Cassville, in which the College exercises should be conducted 
during the current year. 

Lots contiguous to the College site were donated to the Pro- 
fessors, on conditions satisfactory to both parties. 

Rev. P. H. Mell was elected to the presidency of the institu- 
tion in July, 1856, but declined the position. Rev. Thomas 
Rambant was acting as chairman of the faculty. 

A plan of scholarship had been adopted, which seems not to 
have been very successful. Several agents had been operating 
from the first for raising an endowment, etc., whose success 
had not been commensurate with their efforts. Rev. D. Gr. 
Daniell finally accepted an agency, and succeeded in raising, in 



156 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

subscriptions, for the education of poor boj^s, $10,000 00, and 
for other purposes, $1,560 00. His report to this effect is dated 
January 13th, 1860. In July of that year it is stated that the 
assets amounted to $20,777 56, which were in the form of bonds, 
subscriptions, pledges, etc. The building, land, etc., appear to 
have been independent of this amount. 

Rev. Thomas Rambant was raised to the presidency in No- 
vember, 1857, and was the only acting president the institution 
has ever had. Messrs. Robert and Whilden having resigned, 
their places were filled by Messrs. Collins and Devore, and sub. 
sequently Rev. Mr. McBryde was connected with the instruc- 
tion of the College. 

The institution having become involved in debt, the Trus- 
tees found it necessary to give a mortgage upon it. How they 
did so consistently with its charter, is not apparent to the 
writer, though it is presumed to have been really so. Want of 
a sufficient endowment was a continual source of embarrass- 
ment and annoyance to both Trustees and Faculty in conducting 
the institution. A college cannot be carried on successfully 
and efficiently without ample funds. 

After adopting and then recinding resolutions on the subject 
repeatedly, it was finally agreed, in May, 1861, " to procure 
suitable men to carry on the College for the term of five years, 
who shall look to the tuition and assets within the control of 
the Board for the payment of their salaries." President Ram- 
bant and Professor Collins acceded to these terms, and the 
Trustees agreed " to furnish two assistants " to aid them in. 
their work. 

For aught that appears on their records, this was about the 
last act of the Board of Trustees. The storm of war had already 
burst upon our devoted and unfortunate country, and it is pre- 
sumed the institution, like most other male colleges, was soon 
suspended for want of patronage. Our young men relinquished 
the pursuit of literature and science, and went forth to fields of 
carnage and death, for the protection of their parents and the 
homes of their childhood from a cruel and unnatural foe. Many 
of them perished in the fratricidal strife, and though it may 
seem otherwise to short-sighted mortals, they have not per- 
ished in vain. " The blood of the martyrs was the seed of the 



Washington Institute. 157 

church," and the blood of these martyrs to liberty shall yet 
cause the tree thereof to grow with renewed vigor and fruit- 
fulness. 

Such an institution could not be permitted to stand within 
the track of Sherman's conquering legions, and, like many of 
its sisters, the torch was applied, and, with all its valuable con- 
tents, it was totally consumed. The burning of literary insti- 
tutions and churches was a common practice of our enemies 
during the late war. It has been ascertained that more than 
one thousand of the latter were destroyed in this way. His- 
tory will consign the perpetrators of these acts of heaven- 
daring impiety and vandalism to depths of infamy deeper than 
human thought can fathom or language describe. 

WASHINGTON INSTITUTE. 

MALE AND FEMALE. 

This institution of learning is located at Linton, Hancock 
county, about equi-distant from Milledgeville, Sandersville and 
Sparta. The village is named in honor of Judge Linton Ste- 
phens, the most liberal contributor towards its endowment, and 
the school takes its name from the Association which origin- 
ated and controls it. The site selected in 1857 was in the 
primitive forest, where there was not so much as a cabiu to 
mark its locality. But such was the energy which character- 
ized its managers, that early in 1858 the institution was in suc- 
cessful operation, with more than one hundred pupils. More 
than twenty residences were soon reared up, some of which 
are elegant and costly edifices. 

Fifteen Trustees were elected by the Association, of which 
Rev. Asa Duggan was the first President and Col. J. T. Smith, 
Secretary. Eev. Carlos W. Stephens (recently deceased,) was 
chosen principal of the school, and Rev. T. J. Adams, assistant. 
The latter is now associate principal with Ivy W. Duggan, and 
W. H. Beals is professor of music. At the commencement of 
the war, the number of pupils was one hundred and twenty- 
nine. But its numbers were soon reduced by its sons rushing 
to the field of conflict, some of them, alas! to return no more. 



158 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Their teachers, of course, went with them. Their places, how- 
ever, were temporarily supplied, and the exercises of the school 
wore at no time entirely suspended. There are now (1866) 
seventy pupils in attendance, and, notwithstanding the condi- 
tion of the country, there is much reason to hope it will soon 
attain its former prosperity. The teachers are men of experi- 
ence and ability, and they are seconded in their efforts by the 
Trustees and patrons. 

The primary department affords excellent facilities for small 
children, while the more advanced classes are thoroughly in- 
structed in the mathematics and classics. The school has the 
advantage of a well selected philosophical and chemical appa- 
ratus, musical instruments, etc. The main building is of brick, 
two stories high, commodious, and well adapted to the pur- 
poses for which it is intended. It is yet in an unfinished state. 
The location is remarkably healthy, and the society is good. 
The institution is a corporate body, and the provisions of its 
charter are well calculated to protect the village anM school 
from immoral influences. The Board of Trustees are elected 
biennially by the Association. The success of this enterprise 
is claimed by its friends as a conclusive argument in favor of 
mixed schools. 

MONEOE FEMALE TJNXVEESITY. 

This institution, located at Forsyth, Monroe county, has been 
one of the most successful of its kind in the State. The col- 
lege building was erected for a Botanical Medical College, but 
was soon purchased by the citizens of the town for a Female 
School of high order. The Baptists finally became possessed 
of it, (in 1855, we think.) Eev. William C. Wilkes having been 
at the head of it several years previously. The school flour- 
ished greatly under his administration. Soon after it was pur- 
chased, Mr. Eichard T. Asbury became a professor ; other 
highly competent teachers became associated with the gentle- 
men already named; and for a series of years, and until the 
commencement of the late war, it was one of the most success- 
ful and prosperous institutions of learning in the State. For 
some cause, unknown to the writer, the Trustees sold the es- 
tablishment in 1855, to Messrs. Wilkes, Asbury, Candler and 



Monroe Female University, 159 

Turner, " binding them to continue its use as a female school 
of high grade, subject to the control of the Baptist denomina- 
tion." 

The interest of the foregoing purchasers was sold last year to 
Eev. S. G. Hillyer, E. T. Asbury and George M. Ehodes, who 
now have control of the institution. Eev. J. F. Dagg, late 
President of the female college at Cuthbert, was one of its pro- 
fessors. With its former prestige, and under such instructors 
it is hoped it may soon regain its former prosperity. 

For many years past, the Baptists have had female colleges un- 
der their control at several other points in the State — institutions 
that would compare favorably with any in the land. One was 
started at LaGrange by that eloquent and eminent divine, Rev. J. 
E. Dawson, D. D. He was succeeded in the presidency by Mr, 
Milton E. Bacon, who erected in a commanding locality, a com- 
modious and imposing edifice; furnished it with a splendid 
apparatus, musical instruments, etc., employed a corps of com- 
petent teachers, and, for many years, carried on the school- on 
a magnificent scale. The writer has understood that the build- 
ing was destroyed by fire during the war. 

At Madison, also, the Baptists have a female college of high 
standing, where hundreds of the daughters of the land have 
been thoroughly educated. Messrs. Browne and Loud were 
its teachers for many years, and under them, perhaps, it attained 
its greatest prosperity. Mr. Browne is again at the head of it 
he has few equals in the State. 

At Perry, Houston county, the Baptists have established a 
female college of no mean order. Here, also, hundreds of young 
ladies have been educated into accomplished and elegant women. 
Mr. Holtzclaw, for many years its popular and indefatigable 
President, is a graduate of Mercer University, a ripe scholar, 
and a most successful educator. Upon his resignation, Eev. A. 
C. Dayton, of Tennessee, became its President, but died soon 
after taking charge. 

Mr. E. T. Asbury, than whom there is not believed to be a 
better teacher in the State, is now (1874) at the head of this 
institution. It fully maintains its well-earned celebrity. 



160 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

BETHEL FEMALE COLLEGE— Cutiibert. 

In the spring of 1851, the author, then residing at Lumpkin, 
Stewart county, was invited to a meeting of the executive com- 
mittee of the Bethel Baptist Association, which was held at the 
residence of Rev. Thomas Muse, for the purpose of holding a 
consultation on the subject of establishing a female college 
somewhere within the bounds of said Association. There were 
in attendance on that meeting, if he remembers rightly, besides 
himself, only three others — W. L. Crawford, B. Graves and 
Thomas Muse. The result of that meeting was reported by 
that committee to the Association at Benevolence church, Ran- 
dolph county, the ensuing fall, in the following language : 

" The committee have taken under consideration, since your 
last session, the important subject of erecting a female college 
or high school, to be the property of, and under the control of 
the Association ; and, finding the denomination and the people 
generally desired such an institution built up at some eligible 
point, the committee called a Convention of the churches, to 
lay before them the expediency of taking immediate action in 
making efforts to raise funds to accomplish the design. The 
Convention met in Lumpkin on Friday before the fifth Sabbath 
in August last, and highly approved of the project. They 
passed resolutions commending it to the patronage of the de- 
nomination and the public generally ; and also recommending 
conditional subscriptions, payable in four annual installments, 
commencing at January next, be taken for those places desiring 
its location ; and should the Association approve of the enter- 
prise, to locate the same at its present session. Your committee 
have made extensive inquiry, and have reason to believe that 
such an institution is greatly needed in this section of the State, 
and, therefore, recommend the subject to your most prayerful 
consideration." 

Whereupon, the following preamble and resolutions, offered 
by Eev. F. F. Seig, were adopted : 

" Having had under consideration so much of the report of 
the executive committee as relates to the establishment of a 
female college within the bounds of this Association, heartily 
approving of the action of that committee, fully satisfied of the 



Bethel Female College. 161 

great importance of the subject, and that the time has come for 
action ; therefore, 

" 1. Resolved, That this Association do look upon the cause 
of female education as inferior to none other. 

" 2. Resolved, That we approve of the action of the commit- 
tee upon this subject. 

"3. Resolved, That we agree to adopt this enterprise, and to 
prosecute «it with all the means within our power; and we 
hereby heartily commend it to the prayers, liberality and pat- 
ronage of the friends of education generally, and of the denom- 
ination in particular. 

" The amounts of the subscription for the school at the sev- 
eral places, desiring the location were announced. The subject 
of its location was then taken up, and, after much discussion, 
Cuthbert, Eandolph county, was unanimously selected as its 
location." 

It might be inferred from the foregoing record that Cuthbert 
had the largest subscription, but that was not so. The largest 
subscription announced was for Lumpkin. The writer, who 
then resided at Lumpkin, was in favor of that place, as the 
railroad then extended no further than Oglethorpe, and it was 
uncertain, when extended, whether it would go by Cuthbert or 
Lumpkin. But " God seeth not as man seeth," and he has long 
since been convinced that Cuthbert is the most favorable site 
for the institution. 

Under resolutions offered by Mr. James Clark, of Lumpkin, 
the Association proceeded to name the contemplated institution. 
" The Baptist Female College of Southwestern Georgia." Agreed 
to elect a Board of Trustees. Directed said Board to have the 
college incorporated, and requested the executive committee to 
employ an agent for the building up and endowment of the in- 
stitution. The Board elected were J. H. Campbell, Jas. Clark, 
F. F. Seig, William Janes, E. W. Warren, E. Q. Dickinson, J. W. 
Wilson, William H. Wade, Joel W. Perry. 

. The Trustees reported to the Association, in 1852, that they 
had purchased forty-one acres of land, within three-fourths of 
a mile of Cuthbert, on which there was a large house erected 
for a school building, and other improvements, for which they 
had paid $1,875 00 ; that they had engaged Eev. Thomas Muse 
11 



162 Georgia Baptists — Historical* 

as agent for the collection of funds; that Eev. A. T. Holmes 
was acting as President of the College; Hev. J. H. Luther as 
assistant; Mrs. Amanda C. Clark as music teacher; and that, 
owing to the rapid increase of pupils, Miss Mary Wilson, Miss 
Georgia Pride and Mrs. Bozeman had also been employed as 
assistants. The college had been incorporated by an Act of the 
Legislature. They claimed that the location they had secured 
was one of the most desirable in Georgia; excellent health had 
prevailed among both teachers and pupils, and, altogether, the 
prospects of the institution were most flattering. In addition 
to the buildings already on the premises, they had contracted 
for another, to comprise rooms for chapel, music, apparatus, 
etc., for which they were to pay $8,500 00. They had pur- 
chased three pianos, but had not yet obtained an apparatus, 
and the treasurer reported $12,500 00 as having been raised. 
There were ninety-three pupils in the various departments. This 
was certainly a most prosperous beginning for an institution 
which, two years before, had not been thought of. 

The next year, 1853, the college had one hundred and thirty- 
eight pupils, two new professors had been secured, the main 
building was nearly completed, an apparatus costing $600 00 
had been purchased, also two additional pianos, and the finances 
of the college were in a favorable condition. Yet the Trustees 
complain of opposition, which had manifested itself in the form 
of a Methodist institution, and which was being raised up in the 
town of Cuthbert. The Methodist brethren, no doubt, saw 
that, for once, they had been caught napping, and that, unless 
they bestirred themselves, they would soon lose all influence in 
Southwestern Georgia. 

In 1854, the Trustees close their annual report thus : (: It is 
firmly believed by the Board that the institution is on a firmer 
basis than at any former period of its history." By the follow- 
ing year, the College had become involved in debt to the amount 
of $3,200 00, and a vigorous effort was made during the session 
of the Association for its extinguishment, which was only par- 
tially successful. In 1856 it was still somewhat embarrassed, 
but in 1857 we find in the report of the Trustees the following : 
"At the last Association your Board reported the institution 
encumbered with debt. But, as was then stated, some brethren 



Bethel Female College. 163 

of Lumpkin, prompted by a noble generosity, made a strong 
appeal to the friends of the College to come up and relieve it 
of this encumbrance. The appeal was not in vain ; and it is 
now the good pleasure Of your Board to report the Baptist 
College of Southwestern Georgia out of debt." The re- 
port of this year goes on to state that the institution is steadily 
advancing, that it had one hundred and twenty-five pupils, 
that a gracious revival of religion had been experienced, during 
which twenty-four of the young ladies had joined the Baptist 
church. The faculty as then constituted consisted of R. D. 
Mallary, President, Rev. J. F. Dagg, Mrs. R. D. Mallary, Mrs. 
J. F. Dagg, Miss C. Cleaves and Miss Lucretia Mallary. The 
ensuing year the institution was visited by another gracious 
revival of religion, and it is recorded that " the institution was 
never in a more prosperous condition." 

In 1859, the Trustees, in submitting their report, ,c take great 
pleasure in congratulating our brethren upon the success of 
our institution for the last year." AVhole number of pupils, 
one hundred and twenty. Quite a fine state of religious 
feeling, and many of the young ladies had embraced the Sa- 
viour. The health of both teachers and pupils was excellent. 
The Trustees say in their next annual report that the institu- 
tion is still in a flourishing condition under R. D. Mallary, 
President, and an able corps of assistants ; but that " its in- 
creasing patronage and growing popularity concur in demand-' 
ing additional arrangements for the accommodation and com- 
fort of its pupils, and the entertainment of the crowd of visitors 
who annually attend its commencement exercises." [The build- 
ings thus called for were not erected, in consequence of the 
war, which soon followed.] In 1861 the Board had to report 
the resignation of President Mallary, who had served in that 
capacity six years, and had given " entire satisfaction to the 
Board and patrons, and to the public generally." Up to that 
date the prosperity of the College had been uninterrupted, hun- 
dreds of its pupils had been converted to Christ, and it had 
proved a blessing to all that portion of the State. But from that 
time it began to feel the blighting effects of the war, whose 
dark shadows were even then being cast across its path. The 
next annual report of the Board announces that Rev. J. F. 



164 Georgia Baptists — Historical. 

Dagg had been elected to the Presidency of the College and 
had accepted. The small pox had broken out in Cuthbert, 
causing a temporary diminution in the number of pupils, from 
the effects of which, however, the institution soon recovered. 

Another year of cruel and unnatural war entailed still fur- 
ther disasters upon the institution. The Confederate Govern- 
ment had taken possession of its buildings for hospital pur- 
poses, and Mr. Dagg, the President, found it necessary to use a 
portion of his own dwelling for the accommodation of his pu- 
pils. It was the best that could be done under the circum- 
stances. The patronage, of course, was greatly diminished. 
In 1865, President Dagg reports to the Board that the College 
buildings had been restored to him, but that the number of 
pupils, owing to the financial embarrassments of the country, 
was quite small as compared with former years. The following 
year, 1866, the patronage was still small, owing, as the Presi- 
dent avers, in part to want of boarding accommodations. He 
had served live years as professor and five as President, and 
now resigned all connection with the institution. 

In 1867 the College was in charge of Eev. T. H. Stout and 
Miss C. A. Hansell, as associate principals, with Miss Hattie 
Piatt in the primary department, and Miss A. B. Armstrong 
teacher of vocal and instrumental music. 

The plan of this work does not admit of a more extended no- 
tice of this institution, which is matter of regret with the au- 
thor. He trusts that its future historian may have it in his 
power to record its renewed and increased prosperity and use- 
fulness, under the fostering care of the younger generation of 
men into whose hands it is fast falling. 

Mr. William B. Seals, who is one of the best educators in the 
South, (or anywhere else,) is now President of this College. 
Under his management it cannot but be greatly prosperous and 
useful. 

Besides the foregoing institutions, the Baptists have flour- 
ishing schools at Madison, Borne, Dalton and other places. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



EDMUND BOTSFOBD. 

THOUGH this State was not the principal theatre of his 
labors, yet as he was one of the first gospel ministers 
that sowed good seed within our borders, it is meet that his 
name should occupy a prominent position in these sketches. 
He was an Englishman — was born at Woburn, Bedfordshire, in 
1745 — was left an orphan at seven years of age, his father and 
mother having both died. God provided for him, in answer to 
his mother's prayers, by placing him under the care of a Mrs. 
Osborn, an aunt of his. By her he was sent to board with Mrs. 
Barnes, an intimate friend of his mother, with whom he at- 
tended meeting at a Baptist church. He was frequently the 
subject of strong religious impressions at this early age, and 
was fond of reading the Pilgrim's Progress, Holy War, Watts' 
Hymns for Children, etc. These impressions were deepened 
by an extraordinary dream which he had in his eighth or ninth 
year. 

After this, however, his habits became irregular; and he was 
almost dispaired of by his friends. Indeed, all seem to have 
forsaken him except "the good Mrs. Barnes." He had great 
desires for a seafaring life, and as he failed in that, his way- 
wardness led him to enlist in the army as a common soldier. 
Here he suffered many hardships, and in several instances 
narrowly escaped death. N The army at length disbands, and 
he once more finds a home and a friend with the good Mrs. 
Barnes. At the age of twenty he sails for Charleston, South 
Carolina, where he arrived in January, 1766. 

In the New World, among strangers, he encountered misfor- 
tunes which had the effect to deepen the religious impressions 
which he had occasionally experienced during his youth, even 

167 



168 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

in the midst of his greatest follies and wickedness, and which 
were, doubtless, the.effects of divine influence. His distress was 
so great as to attract the notice of the members of the family 
in which he lived, and also of the boarders. On a certain day 
one of them told him he was under conviction, and advised 
him to go and hear a Baptist minister in the place, assuring 
him he was the only preacher in the city who could be of any 
service to him. Accordingly, he went to hear Mr. Hart, 
(whose name is dear to South Carolina Baptists,) whose minis- 
try was sanctified to his conversion. On this subject he writes : 
" I do not remember that at that time I had any very distress- 
ing fears of hell; but it cut me to the heart that I had sinned 
against such a good God, and that I was such an unholy, de- 
ceitful creature. The first day of November, the day on which 
I was twenty-one years of age, was a day never to be forgotten. 
It was a day of light, a day of peace and joy. That day I 
had clearer views than formerly of sin, holiness, God and Christ, 
and different views from all I had ever before experienced. I 
think I was enabled to devote my whole self to God as a recon- 
ciled God. I think I then so believed in Christ as to trust in 
him, and commit my all into his hands. At that time, and 
from that time, I considered myself as not my own, but his ; 
his, and not the world's; his and no longer Satan's; Ms, for 
time, and his for eternity." His soul was greatly comforted by 
the following passages : " Call upon me in the day of trouble ; 
I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me. Come unto me, 
all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 
My grace is sufficient for thee." He says: "My guilt was re- 
moved; my sorrow was turned into joy, and I had peace 
through believing in the fullness and freeness of this great sal- 
vation. I was indeed like a new man ; every thing in me, all 
around me, appeared new. A new song was put into my mouth, 
even praises to my God and Saviour. I could not but express 
my joy to the family where I lived, though they were stran- 
gers to every thing of the kind, and some of them really thought 
I was deranged. This unspeakable happiness continued with- 
out any intermission for two whole weeks ; and I then thought 
it would continue forever. But, alas! I soon found I was mis- 
taken." 



Edmund Botsford. 169 

On the 13th of March he was baptized — soon afterwards was 
licensed to preach, and entered upon a course of study, pre- 
paratory to the ministry, under his pastor, Rev. Mr. Hart. 
Having enumerated many of God's mercies and several inter- 
esting scenes through which he had passed, he adds : "Sol 
have been groom, footman, painter, carpenter and soldier; and 
had now commenced preacher." He continued with Mr. Hart 
until the following June. 

He finally concluded to leave Charleston. A gentleman made 
him a present of a horse, saddle and saddle-bags ; his friends 
furnished him with clothing. Leaving Charleston, he traveled 
on to Euhaw, where he remained with Rev. Mr. Pelot to the 
end of July. Near Tuckaseeking, a settlement about forty 
miles from Savannah, in Georgia, were a few Baptists, who 
constituted a branch of the Euhaw church. The death of Rev. 
Mr. Stirk, a zealous Baptist minister, had left this little band 
destitute of the gospel. Hearing of Mr. Botsford, they invited 
him to come over and help them. With Mr. Pelot he visited 
them and preached his first sermon to them on the 27th of 
June, 1771. At this time there was not a regularly constituted 
Baptist church and but one ordained minister* in the whole 
province of Georgia. His labors here were highly acceptable, and 
in compliance with their wishes he agreed to remain with thorn 
one year. He met with no opposition, was much followed and 
caressed, and some would travel twenty miles to attend his 
ministry. He did not confine himself to Tuckaseeking, but 
preached extensively in many contiguous regions, both in 
Georgia and South Carolina. 

The manner in which he commenced his labors at Ebenezer, 
a large settlement of Hutch Lutherans, was sufficiently amusing. 
It is thus related by Mr. Botsford : "At the lower part of this 
settlement was a Dutch church, which was only occasionally 
occupied by the Lutherans, and was convenient to a few Bap- 
tists and others. I was asked if I had any objections to preach 
in it, if leave could be obtained ? " By no means." Applica- 
tion was made to the minister, a Mr. Robin hurst, (as the name 
was pronounced,) and he referred the applicant to the deacon. 
The deacon's reply was : ' No, no ; tese Paptists are a very 

*Mr. Daniel Marshall. 



1 70 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

pad people ; they begin shlow tit forst — py and py all men fol- 
low dem. No, no, go the minister, Mr. Bobinhurst ; if he says 
breach, den I kiff you de keys.' ' The minister says, I have no 
objection, and leaves it with you.' ' Den take de keys ; I will 
come and hear myself.' The house was opened, and I preached 
the first time on October 1, 1771, from Matt. ix. 13. When I 
had preached, the old deacon said : ' Dat peen pad poy, put he 
breach Jesus Christ ; he come again and welcome.' " 

In 1772, he enlarged the sphere of his labors, and traveled 
and preached almost incessantly. He visited Augusta, Kiokee, 
and several other places, which at that time stretched along on 
the frontiers of Georgia and South Carolina. In one of these 
excursions he became acquainted with the famous Daniel Mar- 
shall, who a short time before had removed to Georgia and set- 
tled upon one of the Kiokee creeks. Mr. Botsford gives the 
following account of their first interview : " By him (a Colonel 
Barnard,*) I was introduced to Mr. Daniel Marshall, as a gen- 
tleman originally from Old England, but last from Charleston. 
' Well, sir,' said Mr. Marshall, 'are you come to preach for us ?' 
' Yes, sir, by your leave, but I confess I am at a loss for a text.' 
' Well, well, look to the Lord for one.' I trust I did so, and 
preached from Psalms Ixvi. 16. When I had done, the good 
old gentleman took me by the hand and said, 'I can take thee 
by the hand and call thee brother, for somehow I never heard 
convarsion better explained in my life ; but I would not have 
thee think thou preachest as well as Joe Reese and Philip 
Mulkey ;"j" however, I hope you will go home with me.' I did 
so, and from that time a friendship commenced between the 
good old gentleman, his son, Abraham Marshall, and myself, 
w r hich I trust will never be dissolved." 

Mr. Marshall was of the Separate and Mr. Botsford of the 
Regular Order of Baptists. Their friendship no doubt con- 

*This was the very individual before whom Daniel Marshall appeared for trial when 
arrested for preaching in the parish of St. Paul. Soon after this, Colonel Barnard, 
though he retained his connection with the Church of England, became a decided 
friend of Mr. Marshall and the Baptists. He spoke of them very favorably to Sir 
James Wright, the Governor. He invited Mr. Botsford to his house, and was the one 
who first requested him to preach at Kiokee. Though he was an eccentric character' 
yet Mr. Botsford regarded him as a good man, and observes that he died in a most tri- 
umphant manner. 

fDistinguished Baptist preachers of the Separate Order. 



Edmund Botsford. 171 

tributed to bring about that lasting and happy union of the 
Orders, (especially in the Southern States,) which was effected 
soon after. During the year 1772, Mr. Botsford's labors were 
blessed in several instances to the conversion of souls. Some 
of these individuals were baptized by Mr. Marshall, others by 
Mr. Pelot, of Euhaw. It was during this year that one or two 
occurrences took place which may be a little amusing to the 
reader. I give them in the language of Benedict, who probably 
derived his information from Mr. Botsford himself: " Once, on 
a journejr up to the Kiokee, where Mr. Botsford had appointed 
to preach, he called on a Mr. Savidge to inquire the way. This 
Mr. Savidge was then a bigoted churchman, but was hopefully 
acquainted with the truth. After he had given the stranger 
proper directions, the following conversation ensued : ' I sup- 
pose you are the Baptist minister who is to preach to-day at 
the Kiokee.' 'Yes, sir ; will you go ?' ' No ; I am not fond of 
the Baptists; they think nobody is baptized but themselves.' 
' Have you been baptized ?' ' Yes, to be sure.' ' How do you 
know ?' ' How do I know ! why my parents have told me I 
was.' ' Then you do not know only by information.' On this 
Mr. Botsford left him ; but " how do you know ?' haunted him 
until he became convicted of his duty. He was baptized by 
Mr. Marshall, and began to preach the same day he was bap- 
tized, and was a useful minister among Georgia Baptists. 
'Botsford's hoiv do you know?' says Mr. Savidge, 'first set me 
to thinking about baptism.' " 

"In the same journey in which he fell in with Mr. Savidge, 
he preached at the court-house in Burke county. The assem- 
bly at first paid a decent attention, but towards the close of 
the service one of them bawled out with a great oath, ' The 
rum is come.' Out he rushed?- others followed ; the assembly 
was left small, and by the time Mr. Botsford got out to his 
horse, he had the unhappiness to find many of his hearers in- 
toxicated and fighting. An old gentleman came up to him, 
took his horse by the bridle, and in his profane dialect most 
highly extolled both him and his discourse, swore he must drink 
with him, and come and preach in his neighborhood. It was 
no time to reason or reprove ; and as preaching was Mr. Bots- 
ford's business, he accepted the old man's invitation and made 



172 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

an appointment. His first sermon was blessed to the awaken- 
ing of his wife ; one of his sons also became religious, and others 
in the settlement, to the number of fifteen, were in a short 
time hopefully brought to a knowledge of the truth ; and the 
old man himself became sober and attentive to religion, although 
he never made a public profession of it." 

At the close of the year 1772, Mr. Botsford concluded to leave 
Tuckaseeking; he accordingly preached, as he says, a kind of 
farewell sermon. He speaks of this as an affecting time. He 
continued, however, to favor the neighborhood for some time 
with his occasional services. 

The church in Charleston, hearing of the success of the min- 
istry of Mr. Botsford, concluded to call him to ordination. He 
was accordingly ordained on the 14th of March, 1773 ; Oliver 
Hart and Francis Pelot assisting on the occasion. During this 
year and the year following, his labors were abundant and his 
success considerable. Soon after his ordination, he commenced 
baptizing, and by the middle of the following November, he 
had baptized forty-five. "In the month of August, 1773," says 
Mr. Botsford, "I rode six hundred and fifty miles, preached 
forty -two sermons, baptized twenty-one persons, and adminis- 
tered the Lord's supper twice. Indeed, I traveled so much this 
year, that some used to call me the flying preacher." 

This year he married his first wife in Augusta. Her maiden 
name was Susanna Nun. She was a native of Ireland, but had 
lived in America from her childhood. Previous to her marriage , 
she had been baptized by Mr. Marshall. 

For some time after Mr. Botsford left Tuckaseeking, he does 
not appear to have had any particular place of residence ; but 
in May, 1774, the flying preacher perched upon Brier creek, in 
Burke county. Here he purchased some land, built him a 
house, and " was settled, as he thought, for life." He received 
but little pecuniary aid from the people whom he served; but 
having obtained, about this time, between three and four hun- 
dred pounds sterling from the estate of his brother in England, 
recently deceased, he was enabled, by a prudent disposition of 
the money, to live comfortably. From this tabernacle which 
he had pitched on Brier creek, he darted out into many sur- 



Daniel Marshall. 173 

rounding regions and preached the gospel with his accustomed 
fervor and success. 

His time was thus occupied for several years, till in the spring 
of 1779, he was compelled to make a precipitate flight from his 
home and the State, on account of the horrors of the revolu- 
tionary war. He and his family departed in such haste that 
they had only time to take off with them two horses and a cart, 
containing a single bed, one blanket and a sheet. Thus, after 
having carried the gospel into many benighted' neighborhoods, 
sown much precious seed, baptized one hundred and forty-eight 
persons, reared up a flourishing church, and prepared materials 
for future churches, so that he might be justly regarded (if we 
except the indefatigable Marshall) as the principal founder of 
the Baptist interest in Georgia, Mr. Botsford hurries from the 
province, an unprotected fugitive, no more to find a permanent 
abode in the region of his early labors. 

During the remainder of the revolution, he had no VQvy per- 
manent abode. Was, a part of the time, chaplain in the Amer- 
ican army — the balance of it, in South and North Carolina, and 
in Virginia. He finally settled in Georgetown, South Carolina, 
as pastor of the church. 

In 1803, he was seized with that most distressing disease, the 
ticdouloureux, the painful stroke or twinge, which, with the ex- 
ception of a few short intervals of temporary relief, continued 
to rack his frame and prey upon his constitution until it termi- 
nated in death. This event, which happens alike to all, took 
place on the 25th December, 1819, in the seventy-fifth year of 
his age. Dr. Furman says : " Rev. Mr. Botsford was of a good 
personal aj)pearance, and of a vigorous constitution before it 
was broken by disease. With respect to his talents, if not of 
the most splendid kind, they were yet highly respectable ; and 
he was a man of the most excellent spirit, candid, humble, 
friendly, affectionate and faithful." 

DANIEL MARSHALL, 

It is a matter of sincere and deep regret, that the accounts 
we have been able to collect of this pioneer of the Cross are so 
very meagre. We have learned only enough to make us earn- 



1 74 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

estly desire to know more. He was born in 1706, in Windsor, 
a town in Connecticut. He was brought up in the nurture and 
admonition of the Lord, by respectable and pious parents, and 
being hopefully converted at about twenty years of age, joined 
the then standing order of Presbyterians in his native place. 
The natural ardor of his mind soon kindled into the fire of a 
holy zeal, which raised him so high in the estimation of his 
brethren that they called him to the office of a deacon. In the 
exemj)lary discharge of his duty in this capacity, he continued 
near twenty years. He was in easy circumstances of life. 
During this period, he married his first wife, who soon died, 
leaving one son. At thirty-eight years of age, he heard that 
son of thunder, Eev. George Whitfield. With many other wor- 
thy people in New England, he became firmly fixed in the belief 
that the "latter-day glory" was just at hand, and that it was 
his duty to do ail he could to hasten it on. Some sold, gave 
away, or left their possessions, as the powerful impulse of the 
moment determined, and, without scrip or purse, rushed up to 
the head of the Susquehanna to convert the heathen. Daniel 
Marshall was among those who became missionaries to the Mo- 
hawk Indians. Sustained by faith, and urged on by a burning 
zeal, without hope of reward on earth, he relinquished his com- 
fortable home in New England for a hut in the wilderness — the 
pleasures of refined society for the company of savages — plenty 
for want. These things he bore cheerfully, with a wife and 
three children, for eighteen months, during which period sev- 
eral of the Indians became obedient unto the faith, having been 
hopefully converted. War among the savage tribes occasioned 
his reluctant removal from among them. He pitched his tent 
a short time in Pennsylvania, and removed thence to Winches- 
ter, Virginia. Here he became acquainted with a Baptist 
church, adopted their sentiments, and in the forty-eighth year 
of his life, he and his wife were immersed. This was followed 
by a license from this church to preach the gospel, wherever, 
in the providence of G-od, his lot might be cast. God owned 
his labors. Many souls were soon awakened and converted. 

Once more his zeal impels him to plunge still deeper into the 
moral wilderness before him. ■ We next find him at Hughwarry, 
North Carolina, where numbers were converted under his min- 



Daniel Marshall. 175 

istry. Thence, he proceeds to Abbott's creek, in the same 
State, where he was the instrument of planting a flourishing 
church, of which he Was ordained pastor by his brothers-in-law, 
Eev. Henry Leadbetter and Kev. Shubael Stearns. In one of 
his excursions into Virginia about this time, he baptized that 
remarkable man, Colonel Samuel Harris, who, himself, immedi- 
ately became a flaming torch amidst the surrounding darkness. 
Marshall and Harris made several tours together, and planted 
the gospel as far as James river. Not many years elapsed be- 
fore he took an affectionate leave of his charge in North Caro- 
lina, and settled on Beaver creek, South Carolina. Here, also, 
a large church was soon raised up under his ministry, and which 
was, for a time, the object of his tender care and solicitude. 

His next removal was to Horse creek, about fifteen miles 
north of Augusta. The fruits of his labors here also appeared 
in a respectable church, whose sons, raised up under his care, 
have diffused the light of divine truth through various benighted 
regions. 

From Horse creek he made his first visit to Georgia, and 
preached the gospel in St. Paul's parish. This parish extended 
from Bean's creek on the south to Broad river on the north, 
and to the Ogeechee on the west. During his first visits he 
preached in private houses; but about his second or third visit, 
he had meeting in the woods, under a grove. While engaged 
in prayer, in the opening of the service, he was arrested by Con- 
stable Cartlidge, (afterwards a physician, and baptized by Mr. 
Marshall, and who continued steadfast in the faith until his 
death in about 1825,) and security for his appearance at Court 
was given by Hugh Middleton,* who resided just across the 
Savannah, on the South Carolina side. Mrs. Marshall, who was 
present, quoted several texts of Scripture with so much force 
as to confound the opposers and convict several persons. The 
services then went on, and after preaching two persons were 
baptized. 

The Monday following, Mr. Marshall and his security went 
to Augusta and stood his trial before Colonel Barnard (or Bar- 

*Mr. Middleton is honorably mentioned in " Mills' Statistics of South Carolina," as 
an officer of great energy, and whose services against the Indians will never be for- 
gotten." Those baptized were relatives of Mr. Middleton. 



176 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

net) and Parson Ellington, of the Church of England.- The 
latter seemed rather to take the place of the magistrate, and 
began the trial by commanding the prisoner to read a chapter 
in the Bible. This done, he abused him considerably, and or- 
dered him to desist from preaching in the province. In the 
words of the apostle, when similarly circumstanced, he replied, 
" Whether it be rigid to obey God rather than man, judge ye" 

Colonel Barnard, the magistrate, was afterwards hopefully 
converted, and though deterred by the opposition of his wife 
from being baptized, was a zealous christian, and used to ex- 
hort his neighbors to flee the wrath to come. 

Thus it appears that it was not without stern opposition that 
Baptist sentiments were introduced into Georgia ; that it was 
at the cost of much toil, and sacrifice, and insult, that our 
fathers purchased for us the religious privileges which w T e now 
so richly enjoy. 

On the first of January, 1771, Mr. Marshall came with his 
family and took up his final earthly residence at the Kiokee. 
The following spring the church was constituted, and is fa- 
mous for having furnished materials for several other churches, 
and for having produced several eminent ministers of the gos- 
pel. Among these were Sanders Walker, Samuel Newton, Love- 
less Savidge, Alexander Scott and Abraham Marshall. This 
church prospered greatly, until the country became involved 
in the horrors of the revolutionary war. Even those troubles 
were not sufficient to drive her faithful pastor from his post. 
Like John, he stood by his master, while all men forsook the 
province and fled. As a friend to the American cause, he was 
once made a prisoner and put under a strong guard, but ob- 
taining leave of the officers to have religious service with the 
guard, he spoke with such power and demonstration of the 
Spirit that officers and guard were amazed and confounded, and . 
he was safely and honorably discharged. No fear of man could 
make him forsake his duty; for such, in his view, was the 
providence of God, that every bullet had its commission, and 
every individual person could but accomplish his will. Hence, 
on one occasion, when a party of tories demanded of him where 
he had concealed his horses, he sullenly refused to utter a word, 
although repeatedly threatened with death. This scene con- 



Daniel Marshall 177 

tinned until his wife could bear the suspense no longer, and 
undertook herself to make the disclosure. 

The testimony on all hands is, that he was not remarkable 
for native strength of mind, but that he had high moral cour- 
age, untiring perseverance, flaming zeal, and that he was 
strictly pure in his manner of life* These qualities were at 
that time (and indeed are at all times,) more commanding of 
the respect of the world than the most splendid talents and the 
richest stores of learning. Such a man was needed in those 
times to stand up for religious toleration, to introduce the light 
into vast regions of moral darkness, and through the agitating 
times of the revolution to be the embodiment, and, as it were, 
repository of the principles of the gospel. He accomplished 
the work for which God seems to have protracted his life, and 
at his departure, having reached a good old age, and seen one 
descended from his loins, taking up his work, it is no wonder 
he had a peaceful and happy death. 

That event is thus described by his son, Eev. A. Marshall, 
" In his family he invariably performed his usual round of holy 
duties, till the morning immediately preceding his happy 
change. Fully apprised of this as at hand, and perfectly in 
his senses, he expressed distinctly and emphatically his steady 
and increasing confidence of future bliss. The following, taken 
by me, in the presence of a few deeply affected friends and re- 
lations, were his last words: '■Dear brethren and sisters, I am just 
gone. This night I shall probable expire; but I have nothing to 
fear. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have 
kept the faith ; and henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of 
righteousness. God has shown me that he is my God, that 1 am his 
son, and that an eternal weight of glory is mine.' 

"The venerable partner of his cares, (and I may add, faith- 
ful assistant in all his labors) sitting bedewed with tears by his 
side, he proceeded, ' Go on, my dear wife, to serve the Lord. Sold 
out to the end. Eternal glory is before us ! ' 

"After a silence of some minutes, he called me and said, l My 
breath is almost gone. I have been praying that I may go home 
to-night. I had great happiness in our worship this morning, par- 
ticularly in singing, which will make a part of my exercise in a 
blessed eternity.' Now, gently closing his eyes, he cheerfully 
12 



1 78 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

gave up his soul to God, with whom, I doubt not, he walks high 
in salvation and the climes of bliss. This solemn event, took 
place at the dawn of the 2d day of November, 178-1, in the 
seventy-eighth year of his age. A suitable discourse to his 
memory was delivered by Eev. Charles Bussey." 

Mr. Marshall, after all his sacrifices for the cause of Christ, 
was blessed by a bountiful Providence with a sufficiency of the 
meat that perisheth, and left behind him an estate of consid- 
erable value. This was not the result of any special efforts of 
his to acquire property, and still less the benefits of his arduous 
labors in the ministry. But it was owing chiefly to the advan- 
tageous settlement he made at a time when the price of land 
was low, and to the quantity of land he was induced to take up 
on account of his numerous sons. 



WILLIAM DAVIS. 

This excellent man and useful minister, was a native of 
Orange county, Virginia, where he was born January 7th, 1765. 
His parents were poor, but honest and respectable, and were 
members of the Episcopal church. He became concerned about 
his soul at the early age of nine years. Two sermons which 
he heard about this time, (one by an Episcopalian, the other by 
a Presbyterian,) made a deep impression upon his mind. The 
Baptists, then called "New-Lights," commenced preaching in 
his native county about the same time. Much was said against 
them, as those who were "turning the world upside down," 
which raised much anxiety in the mind of young Davis to 
hear them. The first opportunity of the kind he enjoyed was 
to hear an exhortation and prayer from one John Bledsoe. 
This served to deepen his religious impressions, and frequently 
at that tender age he was known to go forward voluntarily 
and ask the ministers to pray for him. He continued serious, 
by turns, until in his fourteenth year, a conversation he had 
with a pious negro in his father's employment, (a Baptist,) 
fully awakened him to a sense of his lost condition as a sinner. 
For some six months, his mind was in great distress. During 
those days of darkness, he went far and near, by day and by 
night, as far as lay in his power, to hear the gospel from the 



William Davis. 179 

Baptist preachers, who were itinerating through the country. 
One night he went some four miles from his father's residence 
to attend a meeting held by Elijah Craig. During the services, 
his feelings became such as* to unnerve him; he swooned away, 
and remained in a helpless state for some time. In this condi- 
tion, the Lord brought deliverance to his soul. He rose rejoic- 
ing, and began at once to exhort his fellow-mortals to flee from 
the wrath to come. At this time his parents resided in Cul- 
peper county, and were opposers and persecutors of the Bap- 
tists. William left the parental roof, rather unceremoniously 
perhaps, walked some fourteen or fifteen miles to a Baptist 
church in Orange county, called Blue Hun, where he was im- 
mersed in his fifteenth year. 

As soon as he had discharged this solemn duty, he returned 
home and submitted himself to his parents. Soon thereafter, 
being encouraged by his brethren, he was in the habit of exer- 
cising publicly in exhortation and prayer. These exercises were 
sanctified to the conversion of his parents, his two older broth- 
ers, his youngest brother and several of his sisters. All these 
became,Baptists, and continued in " the comfort of the Holy 
Ghost" until their death. 

At sixteen years of age, though much against the will of his 
friends, Mr. Davis volunteered as a soldier of the revolution, 
and was some time under the command of General Lafayette. 
He was wounded in the head, and suffered greatly from fatigue 
and hunger. While the army of Lafayette was on a forced 
march to join Washington in the capture of Cornwallis, young 
Davis was without a morsel of food two whole days. This 
having come to the ears of the General, he was sent for to his 
tent, and with his own hands he furnished the youthful soldier 
with food. This kindness, on the part of Lafayette, was re- 
membered with gratitude all his life. He was heard to mention 
it during his last sickness. He was present at the surrender of 
Cornwallis, and after the war, returned to his family in Virginia, 
where he enjoyed the friendship and confidence of the Madisons 
and Barbours, and other distinguished men of that State. 

In 1788, he was licensed to preach the gospel, while yet in 
his native State, and was ordained in Georgia by Dozier Thorn- 
ton and Thomas Maxwell in 1793. His education was quite 



180 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

limited, }*et he was a man of strong mind, excellent memory, 
and fine imagination. His manner was easy, yet forcible. He 
was an original thinker, and his style of oratory was peculiar 
to himself — bold and energetic. His character was without 
spot or blemish, and his piety was of a high order. One fact 
proves that he lived the religion which he preached: Eleven out 
of the twelve children, which he had, became worthy members 
of the church during their father's lifetime; three of them are 
preachers, Jonathan, James and Jesse; and two others, Jeptha 
and William, deacons. As a pastor, he must have stood high 
with the churches which enjoyed his watchcare. The church 
in the fork of Broad river (Elbert county,) he served twenty- 
three years ; that at Beaver Dam twelve years ; Clark's Station 
nineteen years, etc. He possessed the faculty of drawing out 
his brethren, who were called of God to the ministry ; among 
those who were raised up under him, are the following: E. 
Shackelford, Isaac Shuttle, Elijah Mosely, Isham Goss, James 
Hales and Sylvanus Gibson. 

In the middle of life, Mr. Davis was a person of fine appear- 
ance, weighing upwards of two hundred pounds. He suffered 
much in after life from dropsy in the chest, and was so debili- 
tated as to make it necessary that he should resign all pastoral 
charges. Yet, he was in the habit of visiting the churches, 
whenever he was able to ride, and when unable to stand, he 
would preach in a sitting posture. While thus standing on the 
borders of the tomb, his ministry was greatly blessed. His 
farewell discourse to the people of Elbert county was delivered, 
while he sat on a table in the open air, and such was the pow- 
erful effect produced, that it was regarded as the commence- 
ment of one of the most glorious revivals ever experienced in 
that county. He was decidedly favorable to ministerial educa- 
tion, and was one of the Board of Mount Enon Academy. He 
was opposed to the location, however, and always believed that 
that was the main cause of its failure. The Temperance cause 
never had a warmer friend. On this subject, he addressed let- 
ters to the Sarepta and Georgia Associations, when too infirm 
to attend their sessions. 

For several months previous to his death, he had a presenti- 
ment that his end was near — oftenv spake of it, and arranged all 



Adam Jones. 181 

his worldly business with reference to it. All his children 
were invited to make him a last visit, and on their doing so, 
he required each of his sons to lay their hand on the scar on 
his head, (the result of a wound he received in his youth, while 
a soldier of the revolution,) and solemnly charged them sever- 
ally to be faithful to their country's interest and glory. He 
was in attendance on a Methodist camp-meeting some ten days 
before his death, when he was taken suddenly ill. His wife 
(who was absent on a visit,) was sent for, as also his children. 
When they arrived, he told the day and the hour he expected 
to depart hence and be with Christ. When that day arrived, 
he spent a part of it in writing, and to his friends present gave a 
circumstantial account of his early life. Some two or three 
hours previous to his exit he was in great pain and frequently 
called upon God for help. Of his sons, Jonathan and James,*who 
had not yet arrived, he spoke in a most affectionate manner. To 
his son Isaac (the only one of his children not in the church.) 
he made a most touching appeal to meet his aged father in 
heaven. After bidding his wife and children a last farewell, lie 
desired to be raised up in the bed — then, raising his hands to- 
wards heaven, he shouted aloud, " Victory! victory! victory!" 
laid down calmly, and instantly expired. This glorious triumph 
of faith took place on the 31st of October, 1831, in his sixty- 
seventh year. 

His widow survived him eleven years. It is rather remark- 
able that she did not become a professor of religion until after 
her husband's death. She was finally baptized by her son, 
Jonathan, and died full of years and in strong hope of eternal 
happiness. 

ADAM JONES. 

Mr. Jones was born in Virginia, in the year 1755, where he 
continued to reside until after the revolutionary war, during 
which he served five years as a soldier in defense of his country. 
It was at this time, whilst in the army, that he became seri- 
ously concerned about his situation as a poor, undone sinner, 
and never did he rest until he found peace in believing in the 
merits of Jesus Christ. 

Mr. Jones was of poor parentage, and, as the times were un- 



182 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

favorable, he received but an imperfect education, in fact but 
little except what he acquired by his own exertions. He, like 
some of his brethren, belonged to the High Church order, as 
they were then the prevailing order in Yirginia, and had their 
religion, as usual, established by law! But the Methodist peo- 
ple having spread themselves through the country, and being 
more spiritual in their exercises, Mr. Jones joined them. Shortly 
after the war, however, he removed with his family to Georgia, 
and settled near Long Creek meeting-house, on the Ogeechee 
river. This was in the year 1785. 

At the time of Mr. Jones' settlement on Ogeechee, he was a 
class-leader in the Methodist connection ; but Providence seems 
to have cast his lot where he was unable to unite with his Meth- 
odist brethren, and 1 as the Baptists were numerous in his neigh- 
borhood,, he united with them. It was some time, however, 
before he could overcome his scruples of conscience so far as to 
give up the peculiar doctrines of the Methodists and unite with 
the Baptists. At this time there was a considerable stir amongst 
the people, and many joined. At length Mr. Jones related his 
christian experience, and was received into the fellowship of 
the church, but his prejudices were not yet entirely subdued • 
especially he did not like the idea of "going down into the 
water." Like many others, he appears to have been afflicted 
with a singular kind of hydrophobia upon this subject. A cold 
shuddering took hold of the good man's feelings when the 
thought of being " buried with the Lord," according to Baptist 
usage, came across his mind. These difficulties he at last over- 
came, and was regularly baptized. 

Shortly after his baptism, Mr. Jones began to exercise in pub- 
lic ; for we find, under date of 0ctober 25th, 1788, the following 
entry on the minutes of the church at Long creek : "After hear- 
ing the teachings of brother Adam Jones, and having before 
had fellowship with the exercise of his gifts, the church unani- 
mously agree to call him to the ministry." This may be con- 
sidered his licensure, but he was not ordained till 1792. He 
took the pastoral oversight of the church of which he was a 
member in 1807. In this office he continued till the 24th of 
December, 1825, when, by age and affliction, he became very 



Nicholas Bedgewood. 183 

infirm and resigned his charge. He died the 1st October, 1830, 
being about seventy-five years old. 

As a preacher, he was thought sound and orthodox ; was very 
useful in rearing up churches and ordaining preachers and dea- 
cons. He labored as a pastoral supply with the church at Horeb 
during many years, which, with the Long creek church, enjoyed 
some refreshing seasons under his ministry. He had the care 
of some other churches for a short time. Having a large fam- 
ily to support, he did not travel as extensively as some of his 
brethren, but did what he could. 

Mr. Jones, as all others, had his failings. He had prejudices 
against the benevolent operations of the day in which he lived, 
but he never went so far as to oppose any that thought it a duty 
to engage in these things. This he did, in all probability, be- 
cause he was uninformed as to the nature of the things them- 
selves, and as to the success which followed the efforts made. 
Had he possessed this information, no doubt his opposition 
would have ceased. In short, he lived and died in the affections 
of the church at Long creek, where he first united with the 
Baptist denomination. 



NICHOLAS BEDGEWOOD 

"Was probably the first Baptist minister who proclaimed the 
gospel in Georgia. He was born in England, in 1730, and came 
to America in 1751, and was employed in the Orphan House 
below Savannah. He embraced the sentiments of the Baptists, 
and was baptized in Charleston by Mr. Hart, in 1757. He was 
a classical scholar and an accomplished speaker, and was instru- 
mental in the conversion of several persons in and about the 
Orphan House, whom he baptized, and to whom he adminis- 
tered the Lord's Supper, probably as an arm of the Charleston 
church. This was the first Baptist communion ever held in the 
State. He assisted Mr. Hart for some time, and then removed 
to Pedee, and was pastor of the Welch Neck church. He was 
disowned by the Charleston Association for marrying in this 
country, while, as they alleged, his first wife was living in Eng- 
land. He justified himself in maintaining that his first wife 
was dead. It is to be regretted that this meagre account con- 



184 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

tains all wc have been able to collect of this useful minister of 
the New Testament. 



THOMAS POLHILL. 

The preaching of a black man, in 1789, was the means of his 
awakening, and he was baptized at Black Swamp by Alexander 
Scott, his step-father. His ordination took place on his own 
plantation, December 9th, 1805, by John Goldwire and Henry 
Holcombe. He was born in Chatham county, January 12th, 
1760, and died in Burke county, November 24th, 1814. He was 
the author of a book on baptism, in a controversy with Mr. 
Russell, a Methodist, in which he displays a sound mind and 
respectable talents. 

His father was a preacher in Mr. Whitfield's connexion, prob- 
ably at the Orphan House; but having embarked for England 
for Episcopal ordination, the ship was swallowed up in Charles- 
ton harbor by a violent whirlwind. 

Mr. Polhill married two wives, and by the first had several 
children ; two sons were bred to the law, and both have sus- 
tained the office of Judge of our Superior Courts. Judge James 
Polhill presided over the Southern Circuit, but was suddenly 
cut off by death. Judge John G. Polhill was for several years 
at the head of the.Ocmulgee Circuit, and died in the Cherokee 
country, whither he had gone on account of bad health. He 
was a graduate of E. I. College — studied law in Augusta, 
but had resided a dozen years or more in the neighborhood of 
Macon and Milledgeville. For a time he was connected with 
the "Federal Union " as editor. He was acting deacon of the 
Baptist church in Milledgeville at the time of his death. 

Joseph Polhill, another son of the subject of this notice, was 
a Baptist minister of high standing and great usefulness. 
Richmond, Burke and the adjacent counties enjoyed the benefit 
of his labors. 

HENRY HOLCOMBE, D. P. 

In sketching the character of the subject of the following 
memoir, it is not our intention to bestow on him unmerited 
praise, but simply to bring to. view those peculiar traits of char- 



Henry Holcombe, D. D. 185 

acter which rendered him dear to his friends, terrible to the 
enemies of truth, and eminently useful to the world at large. 
Whatever is said, then, is not in the spirit of eulogy, but simply 
that his principles and practice may be duly made known and 
appreciated, and that he may yet speak, by these records, though 
his voice is hushed in the stillness of the tomb. We will give, 
therefore, partly in our own language, but mostly in the lan- 
guage of others, a few outlines of his history. 

Henry Holcombe was the son of Grimes and Elizabeth Hol- 
combe, and was born in Prince Edward county, Yirginia, Sep- 
tember 22, 1762. While he was yet a child, his father removed 
with his family to South Carolina, where, to use his own words, 
" at eleven years of age, he completed all the educationlie ever 
received from a living preceptor." 

This fact is worthy of particular notice, when considered in 
connection with his intellectual endowments, and the extent of 
his acquisitions in after life. Even the poor and indifferent 
means of instruction within his reach were taken from him at 
a period too early to admit of a presumption that he could have 
derived much profit from their employment. Nature must, 
therefore, have endowed him with a mind rich in its own re- 
sources, and vigorous, even in its youth, else he could not have 
extended his researches as successfully as he did into the sub- 
limest and deepest mysteries that can occupy the attention of 
a rational man. She was thus bountiful to him : she taught 
him to think, and led him, even in boyhood, to fix his thoughts 
on the noblest of her works. At an age when children, less 
favored by nature, are amused with toys and trinkets, he de- 
lighted to dwell on the grandeur and magnificence of those 
countless orbs with which she has gilded the immensity of 
space. His soul seems to have been placed, almost on the very 
day of its creation, far onward in that track which leads from 
truth to truth, from Avonder to wonder, and from glory to glory, 
up to the throne of the great Jehovah. 

This period of his youth was one of severe trial to our com- 
mon country. She was just then emerging from a state of de- 
pendence on an empire which had lost sight of her own interest 
and that of humanity, in attempting to fasten chains on free- 
men, and in daring to require that the noble and the brave 



186 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

should bow the knee at her behest. It was a period when the 
hearts of our fathers were sorely and severely tried. Their 
homes were deserted for the tented fields, and their wives and 
daughters left alone at their firesides, hoping and fearing ; and 
at the domestic altar, praying for their triumphant return, yet 
dreading to hear the dismal tidings of their discomfiture and 
death. Our cities and villages were filled with hireling hordes, 
and throughout this portion of our beloved country nothing 
was heard but the loud alarm of war. It was at this period — 
so interesting to our fathers, so interesting to us all — that the 
lofty and independent spirit of Henry Holcombe first exhibited 
itself. He waited not fqr the arrival of manhood before he drew 
his sword, but entered promptly into the service of his country, 
determined, with every patriot of that day, to live free or die. 
His ardor and intrepidity, tempered as they were by that dis- 
cretion and sound judgment, without which courage is unavail- 
ing and boldness becomes impetuous rashness, soon raised him 
to command. Here, as well as in every other station in which 
he was found in after life, he acquitted himself well, and gave 
the fullest proof that the trust reposed in him by his fellow- 
soldiers was not misplaced. 

"While an officer in the army he was led to those reflections, 
which inclined him to renounce the -pomps and<vanities of the 
world, and to seek for happiness in the calm contemplation of 
Bible truth. He had tasted of the cup of earthly pleasures, 
and found there was bitterness in it. He had pursued the 
track to which his natural propensities led him, and he became 
convinced that it would end in everlasting pain. He sought 
for a path which would conduct him to something more cheer- 
ing in its aspects, more attractive in its nature, and he found 
that which leads up to heaven. He became a christian. In his 
twenty-second year, his attention was first turned to gospel 
ordinances. " In conversing with my father," says he, " he in- 
formed me that I was baptized in my infancy, and said I was a 
Presbyterian. Asking on what passages of Scripture the pecu- 
liar tenets of that denomination were founded, he took up the 
Bible and kindly endeavored to satisfy me on those points. 
But, to his painful disappointment, we could find nothing that 
seemed to me in favor of baptizing infants, nor for governing a 



A 

\ 



Henry Holeombe, B.D. 187 

gospel church, otherwise than by the suffrages of its members 
To pass softly over this tender ground, the result of my serious 
and reiterated inquiries into the materials, ordinances and gov- 
ernment of the apostolic churches was the full conviction, that 
to follow the dictates of my conscience I must be a Baptist ; 
and not conferring with flesh and blood, I rode near twenty 
miles to propose myself as a candidate for admission into a 
Baptist church." Immediately after his baptism, he received a 
license according to its forms to proclaim to others the truths 
of which he had become so fully convinced himself. He en- 
tered upon the work of the ministry with zeal, and pursued it 
with an industrious and persevering earnestness which did not 
escape the notice of his christian brethren. He was soon in- 
vited by the church at Pike creek, South Carolina, .to become 
their pastor ; and after having preached to them several months 
as a licentiate, he was ordained on the 11th of September, 1785, 
and on the same day was called upon to baptize three young 
men, who had given evidence of a gracious change under his 
ministry. His labors at this time appear to have been blessed 
with almost unparalleled success. Multitudes were brought to 
inquire what they should do to be saved. Domestic altars 
sprang up in all directions among families who had hitherto 
gloried in impiety and infidelity. 

Having formed the conjugal relation in April, 1786, in the 
following June he baptized, among twenty-six professed be- 
lievers, his wife, her only brother, and their mother. In the 
following August, his father, having renounced the world, to- 
gether with his pcedo-Baptist prejudices, in the sixty-first year 
of his age, was one of seventeen baptized by Dr. Holcombe. 
Such encouragements as these only served to inspire him with 
increased ardor. Though he had as yet received no pecuniary 
reward for his clerical services, yet his fellow-citizens mani- 
fested their confidence in him by appointing him their repre- 
sentative in the Convention of South Carolina which approved 
the Constitution of the United States, and which was held in 
Charleston. 

On his return from Charleston, he was invited to take the 
pastoral charge of the Baptist church at Euhaw, which he ac- 
cepted, and on the 1st of February, 1791, arrived at the Euhaw. 



188 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

He preached statedly at this place, May river and St. Helena. 
In 1795, on account of the sickliness of his family, he removed 
to Beaufort, though he still retained his previous pastoral con- 
nections. The inhabitants of Beaufort were at this time, with 
yery few exceptions, strangers to true religion, and strongly 
prejudiced against Baptists. Baptism had never been admin- 
istered anywhere in the vicinity. Yet, despite these prejudices, 
a neat and commodious Baptist meeting-house was erected, and 
very many, both men and women, were added to the church 
by baptism at the hands of Dr. Holcombe. Here he contin- 
ued until 1799, when he removed to the city of Savannah, 
where a wider field of usefulness than any in which he had 
hitherto labored was opened before him. 

In 1795, a house of worship was partially erected by a few 
Baptists in Savannah. The following year, as the house was 
merely inclosed, and as the Baptists had no minister to occupy 
it, they rented it to the Presbyterians, who had recently lost 
their house of worship by fire. A few months before the expi- 
ration of this term, in 1799, Dr. Holcombe received and ac- 
cepted a call from the pew-holders of this building, to impart 
to them the gospel. The reception he met with # was highly 
respectful, and his annual salary fixed at $2,000. His congre- 
gation was large and respectable, and the interests of religion, 
among the various denominations, appeared to revive by the 
blessing of God on the Word of His grace. Here we would 
remark, it is pleasing to notice the mutual surrender of secta- 
rian feelings, by this christian Baptist pastor and this christian 
Presbyterian people. However, early in 1800 the Baptists con- 
ceived it their duty to form themselves into a church of their 
order. Accordingly Dr. Holcombe, with his wife and ten others, 
signed a pledge, in which they agreed to endeavor to keep 
house for the Lord, as soon as the necessary arrangements could 
be made. 

On the 11th September following, he buried with Christ in 
baptism the first white person who had ever received that holy 
rite in Savannah, and on the 26th of November of the same 
year, they were regularly constituted into a church, of which 
Dr. Holcombe was chosen pastor. This "little one has become 
a thousand and this small people a great nation." 



Henry Holcombe, B. D. 189 

In this city, his whole soul seemed to be engaged in the work 
of doing good, and much under God did he accomplish. It may 
be well to state some of the means which he adopted to accom- 
plish his benevolent designs: 

1. In 1801, the "Savannah Female Asylum," (a society for 
supporting and educating helpless female orphans,) was formed 
in his parlor, under a constitution and by-laws drawn up by 
himself. This institution, from its formation to the present 
time, has been the favorite of all denominations; and individ- 
uals as well as bodies in both the civil and religious departments 
of the community, have vied with each other in supporting it. 

2. He published "the Georgia Analytical Eespository," a re- 
ligious magazine, devoted to literature as well as religion. 

3. About this time he published an address to the friends of 
religion in Georgia, on their duties in reference to civil govern- 
ment, in which he urged them to discard the idea that atten- 
tion to affairs of State is incompatible with the christian pro- 
fession. After showing ivhy Ave should support civil goverment 
and hoiv we should do it, he concludes by saying, "At all elec- 
tions, let every one qualified to vote attend and do his duty, as 
in the presence of God, considering that incalculable benefits 
may be the result of it." t 

4. As a pastor, he was indefatigable in his labors, visiting 
from house to house, not only the members of his church but 
the people of his congregation, and enforcing his public dis- 
courses by private exhortations and prayers. 

5. The execution of a man, for the comparatively small crime 
of stealing a gun, attracted his attention to the extreme se- 
verity of the penal code of Georgia. He was instrumental in 
rousing public attention to this subject, and may be regarded 
as the originator of our State penitentiary. 

6. His opposition to Deists, theatrical entertainments, etc., 
was open and manly, and subjected him to dangers from 
which he was delivered only by the hand of Providence. Sev- 
eral attempts were made against him, among which were the 
following, which we give in his own words: "An attempt was 
made at night, to decoy me by a stratagem into an ambuscade; 
but, as an ever-watchful Providence would have it, without 
success. A well-dressed fellow, who assumed the style and 



190 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

manner of a gentleman, endeavored to get me out of my house 
after midnight, under the pretence of wanting me to perform 
a marriage ceremony. And had I not happened to hear the 
clock strike twelve, just before the knock at my door, I might 
have believed him in the assertion, that it was but a little past 
ten o'clock, and been led into the snare of my adversaries. He 
said his name was Clark, that the parties to be married were 
respectable strangers, had been disappointed in obtaining their 
marriage license sooner, had to sail next morning, were very 
desirous of being married by me, and that he would give me 
immediately a fee of fifty dollars. But, on peremptorily refus- 
ing, from an upper window, to come down stairs on any con- 
sideration at so unseasonable an hour, this Judas, who had 
before expressed himself with the greatest politeness, over- 
whelmed me with a torrent of the bitterest curses; and swore 
by his God, that if I opened my mouth to call the guard, he 
would break every window in my house. From this unsuccess- 
ful stratagem, they had recourse to violence. Returning, ac- 
cording to my well-known custom, about nine o'clock in the 
evening, from the meeting of a society of which I was a mem- 
ber, with a small son at each of my hands, a musket was 
snapped at my breast, and the fire rolled so near me, in throw- 
ing out my hand in the dark, Ilaid hold on a bayonet! But 
God being pleased, at this critical moment, to make my heart 
like adamant, I exerted a loud authoritative voice in a few inter- 
rogations, which so alarmed the two cowardly assassins, whom 
I perceived before me with fixed bayonets, that they sneaked 
away, as if- expecting every moment to be seized, 'begging ten 
thousand par 'dons ,' and, with tremulous voices, apologizing for 
their dastardly attempt on my life." 

His efforts to promote union and concentration of effort 
among all christians, and especially those of his own denomi- 
nation, were worthy of the man. and were productive of good 
results. He was in the conference of Baptist ministers which 
agreed to found the Mount Enon Academy, (in 1804,) and 
adopted a constitution as a misssionary society, called the Gen- 
eral Committee, (in 1806,) and exerted his utmost powers to pro- 
mote these objects. He selected the site, purchased the land, 
and was appointed the agent to collect funds to carry it on, in 



Henry Holcombe, D. D. 191 

which he was quite successful. He had the happiness to bap- 
tize many persons of distinction, among whom was Hon. Joseph 
Clay, an eminent civilian, and a Federal Judge of the District 
of Georgia. 

During a preaching excursion in the up-country, while some 
two hundred miles from home, he delivered a discourse on a 
very warm day; and immediately afterwards drank freely of 
cold water. This brought him, in a moment, from perfect health 
to the borders of the grave. Though, for the time being, he 
obtained partial relief, yet he continued seriously indisposed ; 
and, on his homeward journey, fainted in the pulpit at Mount 
Enon. Continuing to preach after he reached Savannah, he 
was taked dangerously ill of a violent fever, and was laid by 
about two months. In 1808, he again met the General Com- 
mittee at Mount Enon, and the following year went to Augusta 
and aided in the ordination of Kev. William T. Brantly, Sr. 
His labors were too much for the state of his health, which 
continued very feeble, and brought another violent and pro- 
tracted attact of sickness in 1810. After recovering, so far as 
to be able to attend the session of the Savannah River Associ- 
ation in the city, he resigned his charge of the Savannah 
church, and retired to Mount Enon. 

Such a man could not be permitted to remain long in retire- 
ment. He was recalled to Beaufort — soon after, invited to 
visit Boston, with a view to settlement — and then called to the 
care of the First Baptist Church in Philadelphia; which last 
call he accepted, and made arrangements to remove thither. 

On the 14th December, 1§11, he embarked for Philadelphia, 
via New York, and after a stormy and dangerous passage, he 
arrived among his new charge the 1st January, 1812. With 
characteristic zeal he entered upon his labors in this important 
position, and was instrumental in doing much towards the ad- 
vancement of the Kedeemer's cause. Though in early life a sol- 
dier and an officer, he became an advocate of peace principles, 
and was at the head of a peace society. A volume was pub- 
lished by him, entitled "Primitive Theology;" a very good 
work, and teaches sound doctrine. 

Like other great and good men, he had enemies — perhaps 
from envy, if nothing else. These tried hard to make it appear 



192 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

that Dr. Holcombe was opposed to the missionary cause. This 
will never be believed in Georgia, whose sons are now reaping 
the benefits of his pious and benevolent labors. His sermons 
and writings, his sacrifices and toils, and the whole course of 
his life, contradict and refute the slander. Hear his sentiments 
in his own words : " Let us, therefore, send the Word of Life, on 
the wings of our bounty, in all directions, to disperse the clouds 
of superstition and ignorance, until Pagans, Mahometans and 
Jews, with all merely nominal christians, shall see with us the 
salvation of God." The truth is, there was a difference of opin- 
ion between him and some prominent men in regard to im- 
portant matters connected with the mission cause, and rather 
than wrangle and strive, Dr. Holcombe withdrew from the 
business, for the time being, for the sake of peace. But, to his 
latest day, the advancement of the Redeemer's kingdom was 
the object, of all others, nearest to his heart. 

It was not as a writer, but as a public speaker, that Dr. Hol- 
combe's talents were most availing. There was an indescriba- 
ble something, not only in the matter, but in the manner of his 
preaching, which commanded and retained the attention, while 
he not only forced his words upon the ears, but his sentiments 
upon the hearts of his hearers. Without seeking the elegan- 
cies of composition, he rose to a surprising energy and ease of 
expression — gave forth his many thoughts in a clear, nervous 
diction, and when warmed with the subject, would lead his ad- 
miring audience the willing captives of his ardent rhetoric 
along with him to fasten on those transports with which genius 
and piety can supply the attentive mind. 

On the 22d of May, 1824, after an illness of only one week, 
he took his departure hence, " to be with Christ, which is far 
better." When a respite from oppression in breathing gave 
liberty of utterance, such expressions as the following fell from 
his lips: "I am in good hands." " Oh, the sublime attainments 
of faith !" " It is all for the good of my soul." " Oh, the pros- 
pects of faith !" Just before he breathed his last, and after he 
had become speechless, a brother asked him if he felt comfort- 
able and happy, and requested him, if he did, to raise his hand 
in token of it. He immediately raised his hand — that hand 



Alexander Scott — Miller Bledsoe. 193 

with which he had so often pointed sinners to the Lamb of 
God — and then sank into the slumber of death. 

The degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred on Mr. Hol- 
combe before 1810, by Brown University. 

ALEXANDER SCOTT 

Resided in Columbia county during the revolutionary war, 
and was the first moderator of the Georgia Association, in May, 
1785. His wife taught him to spell, but she died before he could 
read. He had preached in Wilkes, and was the means of bring- 
ing Silas Mercer to think seriously on the subject of baptism, 
and finally baptized him. Soon he removed to South Carolina, 
and was many years pastor of Black Swamp church, and mod- 
erator of Savannah River Association. About 1807, several of 
his parishioners removed to Wilkinson county, Mississippi, and 
Mr. Scott went with them, but did not long survive the re- 
moval. He was in high reputation as an excellent counselor. 
A son of his, A. M. Scott, (Abram Marshall, it is presumed,) has 
been Governor of Mississippi. 

MILLER BLEDSOE 

Was born in Fredericksburg, Virginia, October 7, 1761. At 
the age of fifteen, he entered the service of his country under 
Captain Ambrose Dudley, in Orange county, who was himself 
a minister of the Baptist persuasion, who yet felt it his duty, 
in those perilous times, to give the strongest evidence of his 
love to his country. Captain Dudley's company belonged to 
the Second- Virginia Regiment. After remaining in Virginia 
some time, his company marched to Valley Forge, in 1788. 

Mr. Bledsoe was detached with others, under Colonel Lee, to 
capture a certain strong post of the enemy's called the Hook. 
Just before the troops reached the fort, an hour before day, 
Lee harangued them and said he wanted no cowards. Seven- 
teen stepped out of the ranks — the balance, with unloaded guns, 
made their attack. A soldier in his shirt was in the act of put- 
ting his match to a cannon, pointed at the invading column, 
when Colonel Lee (who was foremost in the charge,) transfixed 
13 



191 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

him with his sword. After a few minutes' work with the 
bayonet, the fort was surrendered. In searching for the enemy 
in the dark, Mr. Bledsoe was shot at so close as to be burned 
by the powder, and was severely wounded by a bayonet. He 
was at the battle at Camden, and was in North Carolina also, 
near enough to Guilford, to hear the report of the cannon in that 
battle. In the South, Mr. Bledsoe had command of a company. 
After a time, he returned with his company to Henry county, 
where they had enlisted, and went thence himself and joined 
the army near Yorktown. 

He had made many promises, during the war, if the Lord 
would spare his life, he would serve him ; but these were 
short-lived promises. In 1788 he obtained a hope, and joined 
the church in Orange county, called North Fork, and was bap- 
tized by Aaron Bledsoe, a relative of his. He soon began to 
preach, and was ordained about 1792, by George Morris, Aaron 
Bledsoe and John Waller. In February, 1793, he emigrated to 
Oglethorpe county, Georgia. The first church of which he had 
charge was Salem, then numbering about seventeen members. 
He was pastor also of Freeman's creek, Big creek, Baird's 
meeting-house and Scull shoals. He and Silas Mercer were in- 
strumental in gathering Big creek, which was first called Lib- 
erty. They had preached some time at Major Waters' dwelling 
house. There had been considerable excitement in all his 
churches the year he first attended the Association, (Georgia,) 
and a report went before him that he was an Arminian. But 
nothing could be further from the truth ; for though a great 
revivalist, he was a follower of John Gill. Indeed, he pushed 
his Caivinistic ideas so far as to render him timid and cautious 
about joining with his brethren in the Conventions and mis- 
sionary operations of the day. He was a man greatly favored 
of the Lord. He numbered the baptisms he performed until 
they reached twelve hundred, and then desisted, lest he should 
sin after the manner of David, in numbering the children of 
Israel. As this occurred long before his ministry closed, it 
would be interesting to know how many he did baptize. He 
was remarkably careful about experiences. Such relations as 
pass frequently with the churches in these days would have 
found no favor in his eyes. 



Charles 0. Screven] D. D. 195 

He died at his son-in-law's, in Oglethorpe county, about the 
year 1841. The last five years of his life were full of suffering, 
but he said he had nothing to change in the main truths he had 
preached, and was ready to depart in the full assurance of hope. 
He had a great desire to see some of his descendants enter the 
ministry. The year before he died, Kev. Sylvanus Landrum, 
now (1874,) pastor at Memphis, began to hold prayer-meetings 
and deliver exhortations. The old preacher insisted that an 
appointment should be made at the place of his residence, and 
that the youthful exhorter should preach in his presence. The 
meeting was accordingly held. At its close, the grand-father 
was raised up in his bed, and exhorted his son in the gospel in 
a manner which will not likely ever be forgotten ; and, having 
placed his trembling hands upon him, prayed. He then ex- 
pressed himself, Simeon like, ready to depart in peace. 

That prayer has been answered, for the grand-son is one of 
the most useful ministers in the South — a worthy descendant 
of such a sire. 



CHARLES 0. SCREVEN, D. D. 

Charles Odtngsell Screven was the son of General James 
Screven, who was killed during the revolution, by a party of 
Tories and Indians, near Medway meeting-house, Liberty 
county, Georgia. He was born in 1774, and in February, 1786, 
when twelve years of age, (having given evidence that he was 
"born again,") was baptized by Dr. Furman, in Charleston, 
South Carolina, and united with the Baptist church in that 
place. As he has left no journal or record of himself, we must 
pass by the period of his youth — the .time he passed as a stu- 
dent in Brown University, Rhode Island, where he graduated — 
and come at once to the commencement of his ministry in Sun- 
bury, Liberty county. He was heir to a handsome patrimony, 
and owned a plantation in Bryan county, called " The Retreat," 
opposite Sunbury, where he resided temporarily, after his return 
from college. Having been licensed by the Charleston church, 
he visited Sunbury in the latter part of the year 1801, and in- 
quired if preaching would be acceptable to the inhabitants of the 
town. Having obtained their unanimous consent, he preached 



196 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

to them. They expressed a willingness to hear him again 
the next Sabbath, and were gratified. They then expressed a 
wish for a continuation of his services, to which he cheerfully 
consented. There was not a single Baptist in the place. A 
church of Congregational Presbyterians occupied the ground 
and owned a small meeting-house. Morals were exceedingly 
low and the people desperately wicked. 

Only a few weeks after Mr. Screven had entered regularly 
upon his labors in Sunbury, the Rev. Mr. Hoyt arrived, who 
had been invited by Mr. Gildersleeve, pastor of Medway church, 
(unknown to the people in Sunbury,) to preach there and at 
ISTew Port. Mr. Screven, feeling himself delicately situated, 
lest he should be in the way of Mr. Hoyt, submitted the matter 
to Rev. Mr. Lewis, also a Presbyterian, who assured him that 
his services were desired by the community, and encouraged 
him to persevere. 

He accordingly went on, amidst many discouraging circum- 
stances, until several colored persons were converted as seals of 
his ministry. He had been in the habit of delivering but one 
sermon each Sabbath, on account of the feeble state of his 
health. Several members of his congregation manifested their 
personal interest in the gospel by expressing a desire to have 
two sermons a day, instead of one. He complied with their 
desire, and the seed sown began to spring up. Mr. Screven 
visited Charleston, and was ordained by Dr. Furman, Mr. Bots- 
ford, and Mr. Clay, of Savannah, on the 29th of May, 1804. 
About the same time he was married to a Mrs. Jones, the 
mother of Rev. Charles B. Jones, late of Savannah, and now of 
Florida. With this amiable lady he lived only about a year. 
She died, leaving him one child, who was also a minister of the 
gospel, Rev. James O. Screven. Happy woman! the mother of 
only two children, and they both " watchmen upon Zion's 
walls I" 

Soon after his return from Charleston, several colored people 
applied for baptism. As there was no Baptist church, perhaps, 
nearer than Savannah, Mr. Screven invited Rev. Mr. Clay to 
attend with him in Sunbury, which he did. They heard their 
experiences, and Mr. Screven baptized them on the 30th June. 
From this date to the 2d of November, 1806, seventy persons 



Charles 0. Screven, D. D. 197 

were baptized, among whom were only two whites, Mr. Jacob 
Dunham and wife. He subsequently became an eminently 
pious and useful minister of the gospel. 

Mr. Screven had been invited by Mr. Gildersleeve to unite 
with the Presbyterians, who stated many advantages that 
would probably ensue. He declined the offer, however, as- 
suring the reverend gentleman that he acted from principle, 
and that while the Bible remained as " the only rule of faith 
and practice among christians," he could not be anything but 
a Baptist. A conversation on the subject of baptism ensued, 
which ended without conviction to either. 

A Baptist church having been constituted, Mr. Screven ad- 
dressed a letter to the selectmen of the Congregational church, 
requesting permission to administer the Lord's Supper and 
worship occasionally in their meeting-house. To this request 
he received an affirmative answer, and for a time matters went 
on prosperously. Nearly all who had hitherto been immersed 
were colored people. But so soon as the word was received 
with gladness by a few " honorable women," the opposition of 
the Congregational minister (who was Socinian in faith,) and 
their unconverted husbands and friends began to be manifested, 
which finally resulted in the withdrawal of the Baptists from 
the "old meeting-house," as it was called, and the erection of a 
Baptist house of worship. 

An old disciple, familiar with the scenes and men of those 
times, writes me as follows : " So soon as his doctrine clashed 
with that they had so long sat under, the strife began. Christ 
and him crucified, and occasionally touching upon doctrinal 
subjects, soon brought upon him the enmity and contempt of 
those around him, and your brother, who addresses you, was 
not among the least in the opposition. Notwithstanding all 
this, he fearlessly delivered his Master's message, which soon, 
'as a sharp arrow, pierced the hearts of some to conviction and 
conversion. Judge now the feeling this excited in this uncon- 
verted community. Families became divided, and, amidst 
many heart-burnings, the community were invited to convene at 
i£ the old meeting-house," to see if terms could not be agreed 
upon which would secure more peace and harmony as regarded 
Mr. Screven's preaching, etc. I remember well the day. After 



198 Georgia Baptists — Biographical . 

opening the meeting, the subject {baptism by imrn was 

brought up. which appeared greatly to disturb the feelings of 
the unthinking portion. Remarks the most unpleasant were 
made on that subject and the divisions made in families, by the 
Congregational minister. At length Mr. Screven rose, with a 
calmness and dignity peculiar to himself, and, addressing the 
minister, remarked . " For though I preach the gospel, I have 
nothing to glory of; for necessity is laid upon me, yea, woe is 
unto me, if I preach not the gospel," and immediately resumed 
his seal. This was " a nail, fastened by the Master of asseni- 
a in a sure place." It electrified the audience, and they 
broke up without coming to any conclusion to proscribe him. 
Finding, however, that his doctrine was offensive to many, lie 
withdrew peaceably, and for a time preached in private houses. 
A subscription having been raised to build a Baptist meeting- 
house, Mr. Screven gave the lot for a site, and the house long 
in use was soon completed. 

The same aged disciple illustrates the spirit of his opposers, 
as well as the character of Mr. Screven by the following anec- 
dote : " While sitting with his wife, beside an evening fire, of a 
winter night, a large stone was thrown at his head, which barely 
-ed their infant, which was in liis arms at the time. Hand- 
ing the babe to his wife, he instantly rose, and walking out 
into the piazza, called out to the miscreant in the dark: 'If I 
am the object, here I am.' The wretch shrunk away from the 
presence of such goodness, without offering any other insult, 
or attempting any further injury." 

Mj iiv. who were at first opposeoMo him. became his spiritual 
children ; and others laid aside their opposition, and became 
members of his congregation. Thus, by an affectionate and 
simple exhibition of truth, he was instrumental in turning 
many from darkness to light; and by his consistent christian 
deportment, he disarmed others of their enmity and prejudice 
nst him. But he confined not his labors to Sunbury: the 
neighboring county heard the glad tidings from his lips : and 
no doubt the glorified souls of many poor negroes and white 
men are at this time shining stars in the bright crown that 
encircles his brow. In the year 1813, he was married to the 
present Mrs. Barbara R. Screven ; by whom lie bad several ehil- 



Charles 0. Screven, D. D. 199 

dren. Of these, three are still living. At this time, he was 
afflicted with the desease in the eye which terminated his life. 
From 1802 to 1821, though he suffered severely from his dis- 
eased eye, yet his labors were uninterrupted. From 1821 to 
the time of his dissolution, his increasing affliction necessarily 
interrupted his faithful labors. As a pastor, he was tender, 
affectionate and faithful to his people ; ever striving to show 
himself a pattern in all things. - As a preacher, he was sound, 
urgent and instructive. In consequence of the diseased state 
of his eye, he seldom wrote ; but when he did, he evinced much 
strength of mind and power of reasoning. As a master, he 
was kind and humane to his servants. His honored widow 
says, she never saw him chastise a servant; he always coun- 
seled them, as friends who had distressed him. As a lover of 
souls, as a submissive christian under affliction, and as an affec- 
tionate husband and father, let me give the testimony of his 
widowed partner, who held affectionate converse with him 
seventeen years. As stated above, they were married in the 
year 1813. and at this time he was afflicted with the desease 
which terminated his life. It was, even then, very painful and 
distressing to him; so much so as to disturb his rest. But, she 
says, for seventeen years she never heard him use one expres- 
sion of repining against the dealings of God towards him. This 
disease was, for many years, slow in its progress ; but, for six 
years before he died, his eye became exceedingly distressing. 
He would often sit up for hours at night in great agony, unable 
to find relief from anything. When his beloved wife would re- 
mark upon the severity of his suffering, he would replj', "Ah, my 
dear! it is just as it should be; I desire that. the will of God 
should be done with me." Such submissive language as this 
was often expressed by him. His friends and physicians often 
advised him to give up preaching, and go to other places and 
try and find some cure for his malady. He once went to Sa- 
vannah, and once to Philadelphia, but obtained no permanent 
relief from his visits. He was devoted to the interests of the 
church; and nothing could induce him to relinquish preaching, 
as long as he was able to speak for God. He sometimes thought 
he out to give up his charge of the church, because he was not 
able to fulfil the duties of a pastor in visiting among his-peo- 



200 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

pie, which he often lamented. He twice resolved to give up 
his charge of the church; but his brethren did not appear wil- 
ling to give him up, as long as there was- a prospect of his being 
restored. His beloved wife sa} r s, she has seen him bowed down 
and in great distress, and upon inquiring into the cause, fear- 
ing he was in great pain from his eye, bis answer would be, 
" Oh, poor, perishing souls ! my heart bleeds to think how many 
are going to the chambers of woe and despair; and even here, 
in this little place, many are in the road to eternal misery/' 
Thus did this devoted servant of God show, that though he 
had bodily pain enough to engross all his feelings, yet he had 
a soul that could and did weep over perishing men. He would 
frequently say, "1 think my work is done in Sunbury ; I must 
go to some other place, and give way to some one more useful; 
but how can I leave these brethren? They are dear, to me." 
He was indeed bound to the church by tender ties ; for although 
he has repeatedly said, that he did not know if one soul was 
converted by the means of his preaching, yet he had baptized 
them, and the church had grown up under his care. He has 
been known to come home from church after having excommu- 
nicated some of the colored members, and weep in his room for 
the remainder of the afternoon, and be in great heaviness. . 
Such seasons always caused him much bodily pain, for it always 
increased the inflammation of his eye, and deprived him of 
sleep at night ; but he seldom spared himself. He was an af- 
fectionate husband and fond father, and he manifested his pa- 
rental affection in the deep, heart-felt interest he took in the 
spiritual interest of his children. Though he was a most af- 
fectionate father, yet when his Lord was pleased to call from 
his bosom those whom he tenderly loved, he was submissive ; 
and when three of his dear children were taken away from him 
in one week, he was more than submissive — he seemed to give 
them up cheerfully to the call of his Master. We now ap- 
proach the period when he took his last leave of his dear 
church, no more to behold them on this side the grave. 

When he was advised to visit New York, he said he would 
go because his friends wished it, and he valued their advice ; 
and he also said, he should leave home without the least expec- 
tation of ever returning to it. The evening before he left, his 



Charles 0. Screven, D. D. 201 

black people came to bid him farewell. It was a truly affect- 
ing scene. They appeared overwhelmed with grief. He was 
in an agony of distress; he said he felt as though he were part- 
ing with his own dear- children. The next morning he and 
his beloved partner bade farewell to their dear friends. He 
suffered much on his way to Savannah, and, for several days 
while there, he was not able to speak without great pain. But 
whenever he did speak, it was to bless the Lord for all his mer- 
cies to him. He bore his passage to the north with the greatest 
submission, and even cheerfulness at times. His temple, which 
had also become diseased, bled twice on the voyage, so much 
as to alarm his wife. On discovering her distress, he said to 
her: "You must not be distressed or alarmed, for I am in the 
hands of the Lord, who has ever watched over me with loving 
kindness and tender mercies, and all he lays upon me is for 
my good." They arrived in New York the twelfth day after 
they sailed. When he took leave of the captain of the ship, 
he said: "Farewell, captain; I shall never meet you on earth 
again, but we shall meet in another world. May my heavenly 
Father draw you to his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, and give 
you a -place in his kingdom!" When they arrived at tbeir 
lodgings, which had been previously provided for them by a 
kind christian friend, he appeared to get more comfortable in 
a day or two than he had been since he left home. 

The doctor, who was to attend him, called the same day he 
arrived, but declined making the application of his salve until 
the inflammation in his eye had subsided. He, however, made 
an emollient application for several days, which was of very 
great service to him ; so much so as to excite in Mrs. Screven 
very great hopes of his recovery. When the first severe plas- 
ter was applied, he said it was much less painful than he ex- 
pected ; and when, after six days, it was taken off, the effect 
produced by the plaster made the prospect of his recovery still 
more encouraging. The doctor said that his constitution was 
so much broken down by his long affliction, that he did not 
wish to make an application of the drawing salve to his eye, 
and therefore thought the poultices should be continued. He 
would often entreat his wife not to indulge any sanguine hopes 
of his recovery, for he did not expect to reach his home again. 



202 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

He said, if it were his Lord's will, he was willing and satisfied 
to die even among strangers. lie was able to speak but very 
little, for his teeth were almost closed. He could take no nour- 
ishment but soup, or something of that kind. His appetite 
left him and his strength began to fail. His bowels became 
the seat of his disorder, and his throat became so sore that he 
swallowed with difficulty. Everything was done for him that 
could be done. He had two physicians attending him besides 
the cancer doctor. They all treated him with great kindness, 
and they observed that they had never witnessed before so 
much christian patience and resignation. Whenever he could 
speak, it was to praise God for his mercies, and he would some- 
times break forth into an ecstacy and speak of the love of God 
to a perishing and rebellious world. He would thank God for 
the gift of his dear Son Jesus Christ, and that he had been 
brought, through grace, to take refuge in the Saviour of sin- 
ners. He would say to his wife, " Oh, my dear ! how good is 
the Lord ! You do not know how much mercy is displayed to- 
ward me in all my affliction ; you do not know how much sin 
and corruption there is in my heart to be subdued. My right- 
eous Lord doth all things well. Put your trust in the Lord, 
and he will support you under every trial." Mrs. Screven says 
the day before his departure for a better world she was sitting 
by his bedside while he appeared to be in a profound sleep, but 
she thought his sleep did not appear natural, and it occurred to 
her that he might be nearer his end than she had supposed. 
She was very much overcome with the apprehension, and when 
he roused up he saw that she was distressed, and said to her, 
"My dearest love, do not afflict yourself; I feel better now, 
much better ; perhaps I may live some days yet ; but you will 
be called upon to pass through this trial ; stay your soul on 
God, lean on the arm of Jesus ; he is a sure support in every 
time of need. I am fixed on the rock, Christ Jesus." She ob- 
served, " I know you will be happy, I know that Christ will re- 
ceive you." He answered, " His righteousness is all my trust ; 
my only hope of salvation is in the merits of his blood." Mrs. 
Screven regrets much her having discouraged his talking, inas- 
much as it was painful to him, but she could not believe that 
he was so near his end, nor did he think the parting hour was 



Charles 0. Screven, D. D. 203 

so near. The Sabbath previous to this time he was very weak 
and drowsy all day, for he had taken a great deal of the "black 
drop" the evening before. He roused up quite late in the evening 
and asked, "Is this Tuesday, my dear?" She told him, " No; that 
it was the Lord's day." He raised himself up and said, " Is it pos- 
sible I have spent all this precious Sabbath on my back — the day 
which saw my Lord rise from the tomb ?" But he would soon 
relapse into a sound sleep, to all appearances. He began about 
this time to be a little wandering in his mind, and would fre- 
quently speak of home, of the church, of the servants, of the 
children, and of his wife. When she would ask him what he said, 
he would reply that it was only in his wanderings that he could 
think he was at home. Mrs. Screven states, in the afternoon of 
the last day he was with her upon earth, she went to apply a 
poultice to his eye ; he had always, previous to this time, assisted 
her in making the applications, but on this occasion he lay per- 
fectly helpless. She eould not refrain from weeping, and when 
she had finished making the application she sobbed aloud, not 
supposing that it could disturb him. Her sobs, however, did 
arouse him, and he began immediately to praise God and entreat 
her not to be afflicted, but to make Christ her refuge, and to re- 
member their dear children and bring them up for God. He 
again become very drowsy, and spoke but little through the 
night, though he had his senses to his very last breath. 
The lady with whom they lodged watched with Mrs. Screven a 
part of this night. When she came in, Mrs. Screven, knowing 
his dislike to having strangers in his room, and fearing that he 
might wake up and see her suddenly, spoke to him and told 
him that Mrs. M. had come in to sit awhile with her. He spoke 
affectionately to her, and inquired after her health and her 
family. She asked him how he felt ? He replied, " Quite easy, 
much better than I deserve ; but God is very good to me." He 
observed further to her, very calmly, " The tabernacle is nearly 
dissolved, but we are assured from the word of truth that we 
have a building of God, an house not made with hands eternal 
in the heavens." His affectionate wife sat by his bed all night, 
giving him his nourishment and medicine. Whenever she 
would awake him for the purpose, he would entreat her in the 
most affectionate manner to go to bed, telling her that she 



204 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

would be entirely worn out, and would feel her fatigue when it 
was all over. He said the Lord was with him. Of this she had 
consoling evidence from his frequently calling upon the Lord 
as his righteousness, his precious Saviour, and his speaking of 
him as his strength and Redeemer. There never was the least 
indication of a fear of death, or even of a wish to remain on 
earth. He would shed tears Avhen he saw his fond wife dis- 
tressed, or when his dear children would come around him, 
particularly his youngest, his little Benjamin ; he would press 
liim to his bosom and kiss him, and say, " My God ! thy will be 
done!" The night preceding the morning of his departure, he 
complained of numbness in his feet and legs. Just at the dawn- 
ing of the day on Friday morning, Mrs. Screven heard him 
sigh ; she approached his bed and asked him how he felt. He 
replied, if it were not for excessive weakness, he could say he 
felt very well, for he had no pain at all. She saw very plainly 
that there was a great change in him, and that he was rapidly 
approaching his end. She called to Mrs. M. in the next room, 
and the family very soon assembled. He fixed his dying eyes 
upon his dear partner and said, " My dear, I am going ; all will 
soon be over." She asked him if he felt Christ precious ; he 
replied, " Oh yes," and breathed his last, without the least 
struggle or apparent pain, in about three minutes after. His 
emancipated spirit took its flight about six o'clock Friday 
morning, 2d of July, 1830 — aged fifty-seven years. " Oh ! how 
precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints !" 
The sainted Screven now "rests from his labors, and. his works 
do follow him" — works that shall endure when the proudest 
monuments of earthly greatness shall have passed away — 
works that shall remain before the throne of the eternal, as 
fruits of his untiring zeal in the cause of his Saviour. The au- 
thor was baptized by this good man. 

JACOB H. DUNHAM 

Is mentioned in the preceding sketch as having been the first 
white person ever baptized in Liberty county. His grand- 
father, Mr. William Dunham, came to that county among the 
first settlers, and located on Newport river, where he died in 



Jacob H. Dunham. 205 

1756, leaving behind several daughters and three sons, James, 
Charles and John. 

Mr. John Dunham removed to Mcintosh county, where his 
son Jacob, the subject of this notice was born, February 26, 
1774. Little is known of his youth, only that his opportuni- 
ties for education were very limited, his father being very poor 
and the country newly settled. He is known to have exhibited 
a manly disposition and daring spirit quite uncommon for one 
of his years. He was foremost in everything that required 
either activity, strength, or the most undaunted courage. His 
marriage with Miss Mary Baisden took place September 12th, 
1799. Having settled in Liberty county, he made a public pro- 
fession of religion the 20th of September, 1806. Two years 
thereafter he entered upon the work of the ministry, which he 
prosecuted with energy and zeal for twenty-four years, until 
his Master called him to enjoy the reward of his labors. 

His field of labor was among a class of people who were un- 
able to pay for his services as he deserved and needed. Conse- 
quently the whole amount he received during his whole course 
must have been- very small. Yet this in nowise abated his 
zeal ; for while he toiled most laboriously to sustain a large 
family, he did not spare himself from heat nor cold, from hard- 
ships nor privations, that he might carry the glad tidings into 
the highways and hedges of the surrounding country. The 
backwoods of Liberty, the settlements of poor people along the 
Altamaha river, the blacks about Darien and on the sea islands, 
(St. Catherine's, Sapelo, etc.;) these were the fields of his la- 
bors — these the people who joyfully received the Word from 
his lips. Year after year, until late in life, would he hold his 
plough handles up to the very hour when he should set out 
upon his mission, and then, throwing his saddle upon his plough 
horse, he would press forward, with a heart burning with love 
to God and man ; or, launch his canoe, and help to work his own 
passage from ten to fifteen miles, to carry the lamp of life to 
the hundreds of poor blacks whose lots were cast on the islands 
adjacent. The writer has never known a more devoted, self- 
sacrificing minister, nor, according to his talents, a more useful 
one. Hundreds, perhaps thousands, were converted under his 
ministry and baptized by his hands. No missionary in Bur- 



206 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

mah, in China, or Africa, was ever more willing to sacrifice all 
for Christ and his cause. 

It is matter of sincere regret that so little can now be col- 
lected of the labors and usefulness of such a man. But his 
record is on high. His death occurred the 25th of September, 
1832. A large familj r were left behind, nearly all of whom have 
become "heirs of the grace of life." One lovely daughter, 
JJouisa, was. snatched away in the morning of life to join her 
sainted father in heaven. Though her demise was sudden, 
(oh, how sudden !) yet she was prepared for it, as is confidently 
believed by her friends. Only three of his children are now 
living. 

THOMAS KHODES 

Was an extraordinary man, born in North Carolina, and bap- 
tized at County Line church, Oglethorpe county, about 1802. 
He soon began to exercise in public, and though he had been a 
green, awkward boy, sprung from a family whose opportuni- 
ties for refinement had not been great, yet he astonished his 
acquaintances. Yery soon he became a persuasive speaker, ac- 
quired a considerable knowledge of books, quoted the Bible 
correctly and fluently, and exerted for a dozen years great in- 
fluence throughout the State. Few men, with his limited op- 
portunities for education and general improvement in early life, 
have risen up so rapidly to high reputation as a pulpit orator 
and theologian. His memory was very retentive, his imagina- 
tion creative, and his powers of description unsurpassed. H13 
person was tall and commanding, his address easy and persua- 
sive, and his tears would flow whenever he touched a pathetic 
subject. Crowds were attracted by his reputation, which were 
often deeply affected under his masterly efforts. How beauti- 
ful is this side of the picture ! What young man, desirous to 
be useful, does not burn to imitate and surpass in shining quali- 
ties the example before him ? 

But we must look at the other side. If Mr. Ehodes' mind 
had been improved in youth by a sound education, which might 
have served as ballast and kept the vessel steady, the sails of 
his popularity might not have overturned his vessel and de- 
stroyed all. Because he was popular as a preacher and acquit- 



Samuel Cartledge. 207 

ted himself well in this department, he was so blinded and 
bedizened by the indiscreet praises of some, that he supposed 
he would succeed in anything. He entered with his sons into 
mercantile business ; issued change bills, and became involved. 
He took his sons' part— prevaricated — became deeply involved 
himself, and was finally excluded for his iucontinency. Oh, 
how many tears were shed over his defection, and how much 
his brethren Mercer, Matthews, Davis and others labored that 
he might see and turnifrom his errors, before his sad overthrow ! 
But he, giddy with popularity, supposed they were jealous of 
his reputation and wished to impede his progress, lest he should 
outshine them. Oh what sobs of anguish have been heard at 
meetings, designed to bring him to see the obliquity of his 
course and the injury he was inflicting on the cause of Christ ; 
while he would sometimes acknowledge himself in fault, but 
soon give his confessions such a version as to lead his brethren 
to question his sincerity. 

After several trials to be restored to the ministry, (for his 
ambition to preach was insatiable,) and not succeeding, with a 
portion of the Williams' creek church he declared himself no 
longer of the denomination, supposing he could raise up a party 
who would sustain him as their leader. But in this he was 
mistaken — he kept sinking lower and lower, till there was 
none so mean as to do him reverence. He was afterwards re- 
stored to membership at Shiloh, and soon removed to Jasper, 
where he was restored to his ministerial functions; but he never 
regained his former standing. Many churches would not hear 
him preach. Through the influence of his friends, as he was 
in reduced circumstances, he was elected one of the commis- 
sioners for the sale of fractions in the Cherokee purchase. He 
died suddenly in Milledgeville of pleurisy, in the discharge of 
his duty in the office to which he was then elected, in Decem- 
ber, 1832, over fifty years of age. 

SAMUEL CAKTLEDGE 

Was born in North Carolina, on the Pedee, in June,- 1750. His 
father removed to Columbia county (or rather to that portion 
now so called,) about 1763. He was deeply convicted under the 



208 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

exhortation given by Mrs. Marshall (wife of Daniel Marshall,) 
in 1771, when her husband was arrested for preaching in St. 
Paul's parish, and was baptized by him in 1777. He was dea- 
con of Kiokee church some years, and was present at the con- 
stitution of Fishing creek church in 1783, and of the Georgia 
Association in 1785. He commenced preaching about 1789 — 
was ordained by A. Marshall and S. Walker, and soon removed 
to South Carolina, where he was pastor of Plumb Branch 
church about half a century. Mr. Cartledge visited Columbia 
county in 1843 on horse-back, and preached as usual; but in 
starting for home was thrown from his horse and so much in- 
jured as to survive but a short time. He was ninety-three years 
of age and had been in the ministry over fifty years. 

Dr. Cartledge, who arrested Daniel Marshall and took him 
to Augusta for trial, was afterwards baptized by Mr. Marshall 
and lived many years with him in church relations. How will 
grace subdue our enmity, and make friends of the bitterest 
enemies! This is the province of the glorious gospel. Sin 
separates the strongest friendships ; but grace unites in bonds 
of affection that nothing can sunder. What a pleasing sight 
it must have been to the spectators on the banks of the Kiokee, 
when he who had formerly laid his hands on the minister of 
salvation, saying, "You are my prisoner," was now led gently 
into the baptismal waters by that same minister, and buried in 
the name of the Trinity, in the hope of a blessed resurrection! 
Many a tear no doubt fell on that occasion, when the meek 
preacher was repaying his persecutor with good will, and try- 
ing to help him on towards heaven. 

WILLIAM T. BKANTLY, Sit., D. D. 

For forty years he was known as one of the most laborious, 
gifted and successful ministers of the gospel connected with 
the Baptist denomination. Monuments of his usefulness, incal- 
culably more durable than brass, are found in various parts of 
our Union. The hundreds who have been converted to God 
through his instrumentality, the numerous saints who have 
grown in grace under his ministry, the large numbers who have 
been trained by his instructions for the important stations 



William T. Brandy, Sr., D. D. 209 

which they are now filling in life, call upon us to preserve from 
oblivion the memory of one who was so dear to them and such 
a blessing to the world. 

Dr. Brantly was born- in January, 1787, in Chatham county, 
in the State of North Carolina. Being one of a numerous family 
of children but scantily provided with this world's goods, he 
was deprived of the benefits of liberal instruction at that age 
when the mind is most docile, and when the most permanent 
impressions are produced. This deficiency was in part com- 
pensated by the tuition of his mother — a lady who, though of 
very imperfect education, was remarkable for her piety and 
decision of character. Under her care, he conceived at the 
tenderest age an unusual fondness for reading, and though 
compelled to daily labor upon a farm, many a volume was di- 
gested, and much valuable information acquired in those mo- 
ments when he was relieved from more urgent avocations. 

When he had about completed his fourteenth year, it pleased 
God to make him a new creature. He was brought to a knowl- 
edge of the truth during a very powerful and extensive revival 
of religion which was enjoyed for several years in the States 
south and west of Virginia, about the commencement of the 
present century. The peculiar characteristics of his mental 
exercises in conversion were pungent convictions of his sinful- 
ness and danger. Before finding peace in Christ, he was the 
subject of most distressing apprehensions of the wrath of God. 
Pardon for such a sinner as he was, he thought impossible — his 
perdition seemed inevitable. His faith at first very feebly ap- 
prehended the Saviour, and if he rejoiced at all, it was with 
great trembling. Nor was it until he was baptized in obedi- 
ence to Christ's command, that he was entirely delivered. It 
was during his baptism, as he has been heard to say, that every 
doubt was dispelled, and that he was favored with a most lu- 
minous manifestation of the divine presence. He came up out 
of the water and went on his way rejoicing. The mental ag- 
ony which he suffered in the period just referred to, seems to 
have been permitted as one qualification for the important work 
to which he was subsequently called. It prepared him to ap- 
preciate the distress of souls burdened with sin. In his inter- 
course with such persons, we have never known one more sym- 
14 



210 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

pathizing and tender. When he saw the anguish of the con- 
victed sinner, it seemed to revive afresh the recollection of his 
own sorrows. AVith many tears of sympathy, we have seen 
him pointing hundreds of distressed ones to the Saviour, who 
had delivered his "feet from falling and his soul from death." 

After his conversion, Dr. Brantly seemed to have no other 
thought or desire but that of devoting his life to the service of 
God. A profession of religion had hardly been made, before, 
with a zeal which some might deem indiscreet, but which in 
him was irrepressible, he commenced, publicly and privately, 
wherever a hearing could be secured, exhorting sinners to re- 
pentance. At this period, in the exuberance of his youthful 
zeal, when excited by the presence of a congregation, he would 
become so anxious to do good, that he has been frequently 
known to rise after the regular services were concluded, and 
ask permission to exhort the people further. Tnis he did in 
the most affecting manner. More than one sinner has dated 
his convictions to the appeals made by " that boy who spoke 
after the minister had done." 

Shortly after professing Christ, a wealthy friend, impressed 
with his talents, tendered him such assistance as might be re- 
quisite for him to prosecute his studies to the extent of prepa- 
ration for college. The proposition was cheerfully accepted, 
and he became at once a very diligent student— not unmindful, 
at the same time, of the work which he had proposed as the 
great business of life. In a few years he entered South Caro- 
lina College. At this time, the institution was enjoying the 
presidential labors of Jonathan Maxcy, whose valuable memoirs 
have recently been published, and who had previously been 
the distinguished President of Brown University and of Union 
College. Betwixt the pupil and the preceptor an intimacy far 
stronger than is ordinarily found between those sustaining such 
a relationship soon grew up. The scholar was an enthusiastic 
admirer of the talents, learning and piety of the president. 
The latter, looking upon the student as a companion and friend, 
received him into a familiar intercourse which lasted through 
life. Dr. Brantly frequently reverted to the instructions and 
conversations of Maxcy as having been of inexpressible value 
to him. If the digression may be pardoned, we will quote from 



William T. Brantly, Sr., D. D. 211 

the writings of the former a few sentences which were penned 
long after the subject of them had departed from time : 

" The name of Maxcy is one greatly endeared to us, no less 
from considerations of personal attachment than from admira> 
tion of talent and excellence seldom equaled. Could we furnish 
a faithful picture of his intellectual and moral worth, we should 
perform a service which refined genius and elevated piety 
might view with instruction and delight. We should, in such 
a case, set forth the accomplished scholar, the powerful advo- 
cate of gospel truth, the preacher of inimitable eloquence, the 
amiable and successful president, whose deep erudition and 
abundant resources in every liberal attainment imparted char- 
acter and respectability to three colleges, which continue to 
hold a high rank among the institutions of our country. But 
the original is gone, and the impressions which memory pre- 
serves are too faint and imperfect to furnish even an indistinct 
outline. We entertain, however, a few long cherished impres- 
sions, which our mind, tenacious of its theme, will always de- 
light to hold. To the writer of this sketch, he was peculiarly 
kind and accessible ; and it is probable that no one living heard 
so much from his lips on the all-important subject of experi- 
mental religion. He would say to him, 'Sir, I have fouucl that 
there is peace in believing. This restless heart could never be 
steady until it found quietude in the Saviour of sinners. All 
true religion is seated in the heart, the source of action and vir- 
tue. Devotedness of heart implies a constant obedience of all 
the affections to the divine will, and an external practical ob- 
servance of all the duties, religious and moral.' * 

"His preaching possessed a power and charm which we 
never have witnessed to the same extent in any other man. 
His voice, though not deep and heavy, was peculiarly clear and 
harmonious. Every syllable that he uttered was as distinct 
and audible as if struck with a hammer upon the best toned 
bell. His whole soul appeared to come up to his subject, and, 
seizing it with a mighty grasp, to raise it up in the glow of 
light and beauty to the view of his admiring and delighted 
hearers. Under the pressure of a weighty theme, his strength 
seemed to be augmented in proportion to the magnitude and 
difficulty of the subject. In such a case, the richness of his 



212 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

mind would burst forth in a profusion of light and vigor.. His 
fullness, on such occasions, was overflowing, and the very waste 
of power was more than common minds could bring into action. 
Whilst thus expanding into greatness and sublimity with the 
majesty of his subject, his whole countenance acquired peculiar 
expression. His piercing eye darted forth beams of light — 
every feature of his face caught the tinge of animated intelli- 
gence which his clear, emphatic voice was sounding forth for 
the instruction and admiration of those who heard him. At 
the same time, his language was select and most appropriate, 
and his whole style strictly terse and classical. It is easy to 
perceive that the subject, whatever it might be, which fell 
within his searching analysis, and stood forth in the light of 
his eloquence, would earn the favor of a whole audience. But 
when it is remembered that religion was the theme, we can 
readily appreciate the influence which Dr. Maxcy exerted over 
the minds of men." 

Though compelled, whilst in college, to sustain himself mainly 
by his own exertions, Dr. Brantly took high rank as a scholar, 
and graduated with distinction in 1808. 

It was his design, upon graduation, to enter upon a field 
where he might devote his undivided energies to the ministry. 
But at this period there were probably not half a dozen churches 
in all South Carolina and Georgia which sustained a regular 
ministry. To secure a support, therefore, he took the rector- 
ship of the Eichmond Academy, in Augusta, Georgia, an insti- 
tution well endowed by the State. Here he remained for about 
two years, teaching during the week, and preaching every 
Sabbath to some of the destitute congregations in the city and 
vicinity. Whilst residing in this place / he was married to the 
sister of Governor McDonald. In the choice of his companion 
he was singularly fortunate. She was a help-meet indeed. A 
competent judge, who was well acquainted with her, has said 
that she was a lady of such " talents, piety and accomplish- 
ments as are rarely combined in one person." To her efficient 
and affectionate tutorship, the writer has frequently heard the 
husband ascribe much of that success which, under God, he 
was subsequently enabled to achieve as a scholar and as a min- 
ister. 



William T. Brantly, Sr., D. D. 213 

In 1811, Dr. Brantly was invited to the pastorship of the 
Baptist church in Beaufort, South Carolina, since under the 
care of Dr. Fuller. In their call they said to him, "If you 
will come and minister to us in spirituals, we will minister to 
you temporals." This was the amount of salary tendered. 
Deeming it sufficient, and anxious to give his, time entirely 
to the ministry of the word, he resigned his situation in Augusta, 
and removed to Beaufort. Here he remained for eight years, 
constantly growing in usefulness, and in the affectionate regard 
of his people. Sinners were converted, saints were edified, 
and thus Christ's kingdom was built up through his instrumen- 
tality. In addition to his pastoral labors in this place, he was 
also president of the Beaufort college for several years. Whilst 
in this vocation, he numbered among his pupils that distin 
guished minister, Eev. Dr. Fuller, and the Bev. Dr. Manly, his 
predecessor in Charleston. The latter gentleman, addressing 
his beloved preceptor and friend, during his last illness, says 
to him, " To you, more than to any other man, I owe, under 
God, whatever I am, or have done in the world." 

During his residence in Beaufort, he was a frequent contrib- 
utor to the American Baptist Magazine, then published in Bos- 
ton. His earliest published effusions are found in this work. 
The surviving readers of the periodical at the time referred to, 
no doubt well remember the interest excited by the communi- 
cations of " Theophilus." An eminent divine, speaking of these 
articles since the death of their author, remarks, " that they 
were read and reread, and laid up among the most select treas- 
ures of memory. It will remain for the day that shall reveal 
hidden things, to show what multitudes of young persons in 
the United States received the tone of their intellectual and 
christian character from these inspiring productions." 

After he had been settled for some time in Beaufort, it was 
thought that the preaching of Dr. Brantly had too much of the 
intellectual and not enough of the spiritual — too much of the 
philosophy of Christianity and not enough of the marrow of 
the gospel. Though characterized by much power and origi- 
nality, it was not thought to possess that unction and tender- • 
ness for which it was afterwads so remarkable. The zeal and 
ardor of the young exhorter had sobered off into the precise 



214 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

logician. lie needed something to make him more effective in 
reaching the heart. This he received as the fruit of an afflic- 
tion, which overwhelmed him with unutterable sorrow. It was 
the death of his pious companion, which occurred in 1818. We 
cannot better describe the effect which this event produced 
upon him than by quoting the following extract from some of 
his private writings, never designed for the public eye, and 
never before given to the public. It is a striking illustration 
of the salutary effect which a chastening from the Lord pro- 
duces upon a christian heart. The extract which we make is 
a long one. But no one, we think, who reads it, will regret its 
length. He will rather regret that the limits of this article 
preclude the insertion of the whole. A more beautiful and 
touching piece of composition we have rarely seen. 

"I have long contemplated the ravages of death, in the des- 
olation of those families to whose acquaintance divine Provi- 
dence has directed me in the course of my ministry. I have 
seen the weeping parent, trembling in anguish over the grave 
of the departed child, and children, have I seen, bewailing the 
loss of their parents. In scenes of diversified grief, it has been 
my lot to witness a large portion of those afflictions incident to 
my guilty species. But none of these things had come near to 
me ; only with my eyes had I seen them, and in the sympathies 
of my heart had I felt them. I had seen the tide of human 
woe rushing by me, and bearing others on its ruffled surface, 
whilst no torrents moved me along in the swelling course. Of- 
ten called to minister comfort to others under their distress, it 
had been my endeavor to identify my own case with theirs, 
and to raise into sanctified sorrow that which might have 
seemed nothing more than natural affection. At length the 
volume of grief is unrolled in my own house. I am called to 
read and moisten every page with my tears. l l was at ease, 
and God hath broken me asunder.' On my eyelids he has 
caused to rest the shadow of death. He has applied the hand 
of death to the loveliest object that ever attracted my eyes, or 
warmed my heart. In a moment he has taken from me the 
charms of intellect and the counsels of prudence. He has 
stopped, by the coldness of a mortal chill, the sweet current of 
maternal affection, and O, my God has taken from me my im- 



William T. Brantly, St., JD. D. 215 

mortal Anna. The tenderest earthly name I ever read is blot- 
ted with the blackness of dissolution, and my bleeding bosom 
is torn from lover and friend. 

" Though it has pleased a merciful God thus to crush me with 
the pressure of tribulation, yet I would not repine at his dis- 
pensation, nor vainly fret because he has trodden me down un- 
der his awful sovereignty. The time had arrived when it was 
necessary that my divided heart should be formed to greater 
singleness for God, and the dross of my affections purged 
from a worldly mixture which had grown alarming. A dis- 
eased soul required the salutary hand of the great Physician; 
and it was reasonable to expect that he would form the neces- 
sary prescription. Had its selection been given up to me, my 
foolish and fond heart would have inclined me to say, 'Lord, 
spare me in that part where, of all others, I am most vulnerable. 
Let me not be cut io the heart by viewing the dying conflict 
of my ever endeared wife. Spare to me the guide and compan- 
ion of ray youth, the cheerer of my solitudes, the solace of my 
perplexities and doubts, and the centre of my domestic joy. 
Cut me not off from the sweet counsel I have taken in going 
with her to the house of God.' 

"But I should have chosen thus to prolong her abode in the 
distractions of a world uncongenial with her heavenly tenden- 
cies. Through the whole period of nine years in which we were 
united, I had seen her leaning towards heaven, bending for- 
ward towards her incorruptible reversion, often soaring, on the 
pinions of a glowing faith, above this region of clouds, and 
resting in the realizing support of a spiritual home. Why, 
then, do I wonder that she has at last attained the wished for 
summit, that her spirit has reached its native skies, and will no 
more return to soothe my bleeding heart ? Why should T think 
it strange that the dove should seek its window, and the wan- 
derer, a home? 

"By this stroke of his hand, the Lord has set the world be- 
fore me in the naked vanity of all its offers and enjoyments. 
He has refuted, by one tremendous argument, all my extrava- 
gant calculation, and revealed the only object of a sinner's 
consolation and hope. Much of my anguish may be only the 
result of natural feeling and worldly attachment ; yet I am 



216 Georgia Baptists — Biographical, ■ 

constrained to bless God that he has made my heart soft, though 
I am greatly troubled by the overwhelming calamity which has 
been the means of subduing my unrelenting nature. Hence, 
though my grief is a gloomy burden, I would not have it re- 
moved. I am made a mourner all my days, and shall carry 
the impress of woe deeply formed on the tablet of my heart. 
I can believe, without the shadow of a doubt, that the spirit of 
that loved one who has gone, now with the rapt seraph adores 
and burns around the throne of God. The certainty of her 
high felicity must reconcile my lacerated feelings to the idea of 
a short separation." 

In 1819, the Trustees of the Academy in Augusta invited 
Dr. Brantly to resume the rectorship. Augusta having in- 
creased considerably in size, and promising to become one of 
the most important towns of the State, he acceded to their re- 
quest to return there, in the hope that he might also be able to 
establish a Baptist interest in that growing community. Upon 
his removal to Augusta, scarcely half a dozen Baptists could 
be found in the whole city. The few, however, were collected, 
and he preached to them in the chapel of the Academy on 
every Lord's day. The congregation increased rapidly, and in 
the course of a few years he was permitted to see, mainly 
through his efforts, a substantial house of worship, which had 
cost twenty-two thousand dollars, and a flourishing church 
Avhere the Baptist name had recently been comparatively un- 
known. For seven years he ministered to this flock "without 
money and without price," depending upon his daily labor for 
support. 

At the dedication of the church just referred to, he preached 
and published a discourse on the " Beauty and Stability of Gos- 
pel Institutions." It may be interesting to repeat the opinion 
expressed of this earliest effort of Dr. Brantly by a judicious 
critic. Speaking of this sermon, the "American Baptist Maga- 
zine " for March, 1822, a copy of which is now before us, says : 
"This sermon is evidently the production of a. man of learning 
and genius. It is everywhere forcibly, and in many places elo- 
quently written. Although the subject is trite, yet the author 
displays in the discussion of it a vigor and originality of mind, 
which cannot fail to interest and instruct. We have seldom 



William T. Brantly, 8r. } D. D. 217 

seen the progress of Christianity more eloquently sketched than 
in the following paragraph : 

" 'In forming a scheme for the conversion of mankind, what 
mind could ever have devised one so improbable as the cross of 
Christ? To human wisdom, it would have appeared an idle 
phrenzy to think of reducing a rebellious people to allegiance 
by the unmixed scandal of an ignominious crucifixion. Of all 
improbable plans, this might have seemed the most unpromis- 
ing. Yet, behold what w T onders are accomplished by the un- 
varnished majesty of this simple fact. Without any of the aids 
of learning, of authority, or of eloquence ; with none of the in- 
genious sophistries of the schools ; without any elaborate dis- 
cussions, or studied appeals to the passions, we see humble, un- 
assuming men carrying in triumph a religion obnoxious to the 
repulsive spirit of pride and ambition. They had the approving 
tokens of divine regard. Their gospel became the power of 
God and the wisdom of God to them that believed ; and their 
work, which in itself would have been the derision of every 
idler, w 7 hen confirmed by the hand of the Lord supplied to 
thousands the elements of a new life, struck terror into the op- 
posing ranks of sin, subverted the rites which antiquity had 
consecrated, and organized communities for the worship of one 
God and one Mediator. Nor has their case been one of uncom- 
mon occurrence. The effects of that preaching, in which Christ 
crucified is the leading theme, are still stupendous. It contains 
the pow T er of a mysterious attraction. The solemn echo from 
groaning Calvary is the eloquence which persuades men. Here 
shines the true morality ; here virtue is improved into devo- 
tion ; here the soul catches the fire of a holy inspiration, and 
rises to assert its kindred with the spirits of the just.' " 

Whilst a resident of Georgia, Dr. Brantly exerted an excel- 
lent influence upon the denomination throughout the State. 
He was active in organizing the Baptist Convention of the 
State, was zealous in advocating the cause of missions and of 
ministerial education, and in every good w r ork he was the effi- 
cient coadjutor of the Mercers and Armstrongs of the times. 
At the distance of a quarter of a century, the salutary impres- 
sion of his labors is distinctly felt and gratefully acknowledged 
by large numbers. 



218 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

In 1824, the pastorship of the First Baptist church in Phila- 
delphia became vacant by the death of the much lamented 
Henry Holcombe. We have understood that in his last mo- 
ments Dr. Holcombe warmly recommended Dr. Brantly as one 
under whose ministrations he would be happy to leave the 
church. In accordance with this suggestion, Dr. Brantly was 
invited to visit them. The result of this visit was a unanimous 
call to be their pastor. A large sphere of usefulness, as he 
deemed it, being thus presented, he removed to Philadelphia in 
the spring of 1826. That success which had crowned his la- 
bors at the South, attended them at the North. He soon be- 
came known as one of the most eloquent preachers in the city. 
Under his ministry the congregation increased ; there was a 
number of powerful revivals, and many who are now known 
as among the most efficient and liberal members of the denomi- 
nation, were brought into the church. 

In 1827, the publication entitled " The Columbian Star," 
which, we believe, had previously been the property of the 
Baptist Triennial Convention, was removed to Philadelphia, 
and the editorial department was confided to his care. How 
this trust was discharged is well known, since several thousand 
copies of the paper were circulated in different parts of the 
Union. He continued to edit this paper for about eight years. 
In its columns, during this period, may be found, we think, 
some of his ablest writings. Valuable articles on church disci- 
pline, important points of christian doctrine and practice, and 
essays on a great variety of subjects everywhere abound. 
Could they be collected and published, they would make a very 
useful, and, we doubt not, acceptable volume. 

Shortly after taking charge of the " Star," Dr. Brantly be- 
came acquainted with a young man, then unknown to fame, 
with whom he was so much pleased that he associated him 
with himself in the conduct of the paper. This young man 
was afterwards well known as Willis Gaylord Clark, who has 
written some of the sweetest of American poetry. In the lit- 
erary writings of this gentleman, which have been published 
since his decease, his biographer, the Hon. Judge Conrad, of 
Philadelphia, thus alludes to Mr. Clark's intercourse with Dr. 
Brantly : 



William T. Brantly, Sr., D. D. 219 

a From his connection with Dr. Brantly, a clergyman of great 
eminence, Mr. Clark derived many advantages. To an intel- 
lect of the very highest order, a copious supply of various and 
rare learning, an eloquence which illuminated whatever it was 
applied to, a remarkable purity and clearness of style, and the 
most rigorous habits of thought, Dr. Brantly united a spirit 
touched with the finest impulses of humanity and an affability 
of demeanor which, while it imparted grace to his manner, 
made him, in all circumstances, easy and accessible. Upon his 
young friend and associate, these qualities, acting with sympa- 
thetic influence, produced a lasting and most salutary impres- 
sion. The counsels of the divine pointed him to the path in 
which he ought to travel ; the example of the scholar inspired 
him with a generous emulation ; and the mild benevolence of 
the christian gentleman taught him the importance of culti- 
vating benignity of temper and of subduing all untoward pas- 
sions." 

During his residence in Philadelphia, Dr. Brantly published 
a volume of sermons, being principally those which had been 
delivered to his people in the regular course of pastoral labor. 
The interest with which this volume was received is evinced 
by the fact that the whole edition was soon disposed of and 
followed by still further demands. Though lucid and forcible 
discourses, we do not think, as a whole, that they sustained 
the expectation which his oral performances had created. They 
were prepared for the press with much haste, at the urgent so- 
licitation of his people. Others of his sermons, which were 
taken down by a stenographer as he delivered them extempore, 
and subsequently published just as they were preached, we 
think decidedly better illustrations of his preaching power 
than many of the discourses in this volume. 

During his residence in this city, the degree of Doctor of Di- 
vinity was conferred upon him by Brown University. We 
presume that it was bestowed through the influence of the 
president of that institution, of whose talents he was a sincere 
admirer. 

After having been settled in Philadelphia for nearly twelve 
years, Dr. Brantley's health began to fail. Apprehensive lest 
the severity of a northern climate might entirely prostrate his 



220 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

already shattered constitution, at the same time what he be- 
lieved to be a promising field opening in Charleston, he re- 
signed the charge of the church in Philadelphia and entered 
upon that of the First Baptist church in the former city. For 
two or three years after his removal to Charleston, he did not 
enjoy that success Avhich attended his labors in all other places. 
Several members of the church, to whom he had particularly 
looked for countenance and aid, taking exception to some of 
his views and practices, declined cordial co-operation with their 
pastor. The consequence was, that he was for a time thrown 
into much discouragement and distress. Tn such a state of 
things, there were but few conversions and many dissensions. 
The malcontents were finally dismissed to form a new church. 
Soon after their withdrawal a better state of things began to 
appear. The church and congregation then became warmly 
united and ardently attached to their spiritual guide. Their 
affection was reciprocated by the most indefatigable labors for 
their welfare. He had the happiness of rejoicing with many 
new-born souls, and of burying them with Christ in baptism. 
At the time that an inscrutible providence smote him with 
fatal disease, the church was enjoying a deep and extensive 
work of grace. 

Dr. Brantley's labors, after his return to the South, were too 
arduous. Shortly after his removal to Charleston, he was 
elected President of the College of Charleston. Believing that 
he Could perform the duties of both offices, and thus extend his 
usefulness, he accepted the appointment. Under his adminis- 
tration the College was more prosperous than at any former 
period of its history. The number of students largely in- 
creased, and the institution constantly grew in popularity. In 
the meantime, unremitting labor had seriously undermined his 
constitution. Whilst about to hear the recitation of the senior 
class, on the 13th of July, 1844, he was attacked with a paraly- 
sis, which, after keeping him for some months in the most af- 
fecting prostration and helplessness, terminated fatally. 

The malady which prostrated his body, also afflicted him 
with mental imbecility. Although there were lucid intervals 
during his illness, in which he signified to his friends as well as 
he was able, that he was perfectly aware of his situation, and 



. William T. Brantly, $r., D. D. 221 

fully resigned to the divine will, yet his intellect was evidently 
sympathizing with his body. Though his prostration was sud- 
den, it was not altogether unexpected. For two years prior to 
his death, he supposed himself to be affected with a disease of 
the heart, which, although it did not disqualify him for his pub- 
lic duties, might terminate fatally at any moment. On one 
occasion, he remarked to a friend, "I have had death constant- 
ly (before me for the last two years. I have been looking for it 
every day." Writing to a member of his family a few weeks 
before his attack, he said, "Were I to be seized with a paralysis 
of the arm or leg, I should at once become an object of wretch- 
edness and pity." At another time he said, "I shall break off 
suddenly, and I think I had rather die in the harness." 

It is evident from these expressions, that Providence afforded 
him a presentiment of what awaited him. The summons did 
not reach him unprepared. It found him with his armor on, 
doing with his might what his hands found to do in his Master's 
service. He had " oil in his vessel ; " and with his lamp trimm- 
ed and burning, he promptly and cheerfully responded to the 
cry, "Go ye out to meet him." He departed this life in Au- 
gusta, Georgia, in March, 1845, in the city which had been the 
scene of his early labors, and among the attached friends of his 
youthful years. 

It has been justly said of Dr. Brantly, that his life was an 
uninterrupted scene of arduous labor. In addition to the min- 
isterial labors, which were always abundant, he was constantly 
engaged in the instruction of youth. To him idleness was in- 
supportably irksome. He had a love for labor. For several' 
years, whilst residing in Philadelphia, besides being the pastor 
of one of the largest churches in that city, he taught a school, 
edited a religious newspaper, rendered much service to the 
Baptist Tract Society, of w T hose board he was the president, in 
the selection of tracts, and when the agent of that society, the 
beloved Davis, died, he discharged his duties for six months, 
in order that his destitute family might have the benefit of 
the salary for this period. His distinguished friend, the late 
president of the Alabama University,* speaking of him, says: 
"He was always busy, and yet never confused or behind-hand; 

*Dr. B. Manljr, Sr. 



222 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

and he ever found time for all the innumerable and nameless 
demands which were made upon him, whenever God and his 
fellow-men were to be served. The principle of his success 
amid herculean labors was, first, that he attended to one thing 
at a time, never suffering interruption ; and secondly, he de- 
voted his whole energy, in the most concentrated and absorb- 
ing attention, to whatever was before him. His mind, by use, 
became like a prism catching the combined radiance of an in- 
tricate subject, and distributing it into its elements almost in 
an instant." 

His love for teaching amounted almost to a passion. He de- 
lighted in that which many look upon as a drudgery. As might 
be expected, he was eminently successful in imparting knowl- 
edge. Many who now occupy important positions in the pul- 
pit, in our national councils, and at the bar, received much of 
their intellectual training from him. "Wherever he met with 
an indigent youth of promise, desiring instruction at his hands, 
he tood him under his care without charge. He instructed 
gratuitously not a few, who are now useful servants of the Lord 
Jesus. 

As an intellectual man, Dr. Fuller says of him, "He had not 
many superiors in this country." His mind was remarkable 
for his grand and comprehensive views. He seemed to grasp 
a subject in all its bearings; and, resolving it into its elements, 
could hold it up in a very perspicuous light to others. His 
avocation as a teacher kept his naturally vigorous mind in 
healthy exercise. He delighted in the Latin and Greek clas- 
sics, and was constantly in the habit of reading them. His 
exquisite taste readily detected their beauties ; and no one could 
be long in his company without perceiving that his lips were 

"wet with Castalian dews." 

In almost every department of learning he had attained re- 
spectable proficiency. It was, however, in the languages and in 
the metaphysics that he excelled. He was one of the most crit- 
ical linguists and profound metaphysicians which this country 
has ever produced. The already too protracted length of this 
article will not permit us to record evidences of his excellence 
as a scholar, which might be. interesting and instructive. 



William T. Brantly, Sr., D. D. 223 

It may be said, however, that preaching was the forte of Dr. 
Brantly. This was ever his delightful employment. His noble 
person and fine voice conferred upon him great natural advan- 
tages as an orator. He never appeared so well as when pro- 
claiming the gospel to perishing sinners. It was impossible for 
any one to hear him, without being convinced that he was 
thoroughly in earnest. He seemed to say, " I believe, there- 
fore I speak." Some of the discourses which he preached were 
attended with extraordinary success. From twenty to thirty 
persons have been known to ascribe their conviction to a single 
sermon. 

His appeals to the backslider were frequently irresistible. 
He would assail such persons with the most melting rhetoric 
to which we have ever listened. It required a stout heart, in- 
deed, to withstand the tears and entreaties with which he 
would beseech them to return to their deserted Lord. 

Although the crowds that attended his ministry attest their 
general acceptance of his labors, and the fruits of his efforts at- 
test his usefulness, yet there were occasions when he was not 
equal to himself. At such times he seemed to preach with con- 
siderable difficulty, and not to enter much into the spirit of his 
subject. At other times, he was too abstract to be understood 
by plain people. His premises and deductions were not readily 
seen and appreciated. But if he was not always forcible and 
eloquent, he was always sensible, and preached, not for the 
purpose of saying something, but because he had something to 
say. His inequalities were chiefly owing to the fact that he 
was an extempore preacher. His numerous labors did not al- 
low him time to write his discourses, and he was frequently 
constrained. to depend upon very imperfect preparation. 

The author of the sketch before us says that " Dr. Brantly 
possessed a facilit} 7 , both in writing and speaking, such as I 
never knew it in any other person ; yet so severely had he 
trained and castigated his mind, that this did not hinder him 
from attaining great excellence." Frequently, when we have 
supposed him to be wholly unprepared, he would come out upon 
his congregation with discourses possessing all the beauty and 
force of studied compositions. In illustration of this remark, 
we subjoin an extract from a sermon preached extempore, and 



224 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

subsequently written out, as nearly as could be recollected. It 
is an appeal to the unconverted portion of the congregation : 

" Sinners, it is precisely thus that matters stand betwixt you 
and your eternal Judge. Your earth-born hearts will not re- 
linquish their attachments. Your lovers you have, and after 
them you will go. That God, who takes no pleasure in your 
death, is the witness and opposer of your desperation. Not 
much longer will he resist your madness ; not much longer will 
he endure the insulting infidelity of your hearts. Of one thing, 
however, you cannot suppress the conviction : every step you 
take in your journey is contrary to the will of God. Under- 
stand and appreciate the truth now, and do not travel all the 
way to hell to find it out. When once you are locked up in 
eternal darkness, are consigned to the imprisonment of eternal 
despair, and tortured with the raging fires of avenging justice, 
you will feel, when too late, that you are indebted solely to 
yourselves for the sad doom. So long as forms of horror shall 
haunt and terrify your spirits, and fierce passions shall prey 
upon them, and inexorable despair shall hold them with its ty- 
rant grasp, and tormenting fiends, nurtured in your own 
bosoms, shall exult and rave amid the weeping and wailing and 
gnashing of teeth in the horrible pit, so long will remain fast- 
ened upon your hearts the conviction that your perdition is of 
yourselves. You mean to remain unjust, ungodly, unreconciled 
to your own happiness and salvation. Yourselves, then, are 
planting the fangs of the viper in your own bosom. Show some 
mercy to yourselves, and desist from the bad enterprise of self- 
immolation to the prince of hell. 

" Look forward a little, and see yourselves in eternity, with, 
unrepented sins. Light and peace have disappeared ; time's 
beguiling pleasures and recurring enjoyments have ceased for- 
ever ; friendship's softening sympathies, and society's cheering 
smile, and humanity's mitigating touch, have all vanished from 
the dismal scene; the voice of mercy has ceased, and love's re- 
deeming work has been completed. You are then sad expect- 
ants of hopeless wretchedness — abandoned to your sins, left 
with your tormentors within you ; capable of misery, and inca- 
pable of comfort, you are prepared for all the complex suffer- 
ings of a ruined soul. The hell is one of your own seeking — 



' William T. Brantly, St., B. D. 225 

the bed on which you are writhing, but not reposing, is made 
by your own hands. All hell resounds with the justice of G-od. 
All heaven proclaims his righteousness. " 

Dr. Brantly had the faculty of securing the strongest attach- 
ment of those for whom he labored. .His tender and sympa- 
thizing heart, identifying him with all the vicissitudes of his 
people, weeping with those that wept, and rejoicing with those 
that rejoiced, won their confidence and riveted their attention. 
As a pastor it has been truly said of him, that he " grew 
steadily in the admiration and love of his flock." The tears 
and tenacity with which his beloved people in Philadelphia 
clung to him, when he announced his resignation, evinced that 
they were far more decided and earnest in their unanimity than 
when they had called him twelve years before. The distress 
of the church and congregation in Charleston, when he was 
smitten down, evinced the continued strength and sincerity of 
their affection, after an acquaintance of seven years. In his 
intercourse with his people, he was remarkable for his candor. 
lie was in the habit of speaking the truth in love, in a very 
plain way. This trait of his character excited the indignation 
of some who did not know him. They took him to be unchar- 
itable and overbearing, but when they understood him, their 
attachment and respect were increased. 

Amidst his various engagements, Dr. Brantly did not neglect 
the keeping of the heart. He walked daily with God. Those 
who were most intimately acquainted with him, know that his 
piety was a uniform flame. He ever cherished the most hum- 
bling views of himself, and the most exalted views of Christ. 
He was always the consistent christian, thoroughly conscien- 
tious in everything which he undertook, seeming to keep ever 
before him the day of final account. 

It may be thought that this sketch will be incomplete if we 
are silent as to the imperfections of him of whom we have been, 
speaking. We do not deny that there were defects in his char- 
acter. He was a fallen creature, and therefore sinful. If it 
could be of any benefit, we might fill many pages with a recital 
of his frailties. But we think that the good which grace ac- 
complished through him so immeasurably exceeded any evil 
which he may have done, that we may be pardoned for dwel- 
15 



226 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

ling upon the former to the omission of the latter. In addi- 
tion to this, it is true— and with these words, uttered by the 
ever to be loved and lamented man whose life we have at- 
tempted to sketch, we close— that " Death applies the finishing 
touch to the character of a good man. This may be regarded 
as a reason why his remembered history is clothed with a pe- 
culiar majesty and charm. That spirit which once delighted 
us with the communications of affection and wisdom, now wears 
the vestments of perfection. It is enrolled among the spirits 
of the just made perfect. Its graces, once lovely on earth, are 
now resplendent in heaven. Its pensive groans, once heaved 
from an aching heart, are succeeded by the softest harmonies 
of heavenly music. The languor and the sickness have fled for 
ever, and to their place have succeeded the health and vigor of 
immortality. The erring judgment has acquired those attri- 
butes of truth and certainty which will forever preclude future 
mistake and deception. It is not wonderful, then, that our as- 
sociations should draw down from the bright empyreal, whither 
they have ascended, a portion of that perfection with which 
good men are now arrayed, in their supernal blessedness, and 
place the same to the credit of their earthly history." 

" This sun has set. 
Oh, when shall other such arise?" 



SILAS MEECEE. 

We take the following sketch of this good man, so prominent 
in the history of Georgia Baptists, from l - Benedict's History of 
the Baptists :" 

"Silas Mercer was born near Currituck bay, North Carolina, 
in February, 1745. His mother died while he was an infant; 
his father was a zealous member of the Church of England, and 
carefully instructed him in the catechism, rites and traditions 
of that communion. From early years young Silas was reli- 
giously inclined, but it was not until he arrived at manhood, 
that he was brought to the knowledge of salvation through a 
divine .Redeemer. He was for a long time embarrassed and 
bewildered with that legal system which he had been taught 
in his mother church, and so deeply rooted were the prejudices 



Silas Mercer, 227 

of his education, that it took him long to learn that salvation 
is not of works. But he at length gained clear and consistent 
views of the gospel plan, and was through his long ministry a 
distinguished and powerful defender of the doctrine of free, un- 
merited grace. 

Until after his conversion, Mr. Mercer was most violently 
opposed to Dissenters in general, and to the Baptists in particu- 
lar. He would on no account hear one preach, and endeavored 
to dissuade all others from attending their meetings. He most 
firmly believed what his father and parson had taught him, that 
they were all a set of deceivers, that their heresies were dan- 
gerous if not damnable, and that to hear one preach would be 
a crime of peculiar enormity. He knew, however, but little 
about them, only that they had separated from the church, and 
ought therefore to be opposed and avoided. For these reasons 
he continued a violent opposer to them, and zealously to defend 
the church; but his ingenuous mind could not long be restrain- 
ed by the shackles of tradition, without examining things for 
himself; he therefore began a course of inquiries, which grad- 
ually underminded his traditionary creed, and led on to the 
Baptist ground. He first resolved to follow strictly the rubric 
of the church, both in doctrine and discipline; and finding it 
enjoined immerson, unless the weakness of the child required a 
milder mode, he had two of his children dipped. The first a 
son, in a barrel of water at the priest's house, and the other a 
daughter, in a tub, which had been prepared for the purpose at 
the church. The son was named Jesse, who has been a worthy 
minister in G-eorgia ; he was baptized again, on a profession of 
his faith, and is of course an ana-Baptist. Mr. Mercer was also 
struck with the neglect of discipline in the church ; he saw 
with pain that persons grossly immoral in many respects were 
admitted to their communion, and became convinced that things 
ought not so to be. Hervey's Theron and Aspasio started him 
from the Arminian system and set him on a train of reflec- 
tions which issued in a thorough conviction of the doctrine of 
the gospel. He labored for a time to reform the church, but 
finding the building was too far gone to be repaired, he receded 
from it with reluctant steps, and became a Baptist when he 
was about thirty years of age, and continued from that time to 



228 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

the end of his life an ornament to their eause and a skillful de- 
fender of their distinguishing tenets. 

Few men, perhaps, have had more severe conflicts in renoun- 
cing the prejudices of education than Mr. Mercer. His kind 
but bigoted father threw in his way obstacles which he could 
not at first surmount ; the church priest, and the whole Epis- 
copal fraternity around him, used the most assiduous endeavors 
to prevent him from going amongst the heretical Baptists. 
The first of the denomination he ever heard preach was a Mr. 
Thomas, at that time a successful preacher in North Carolina. 
It was with much reluctance, and with many fearful apprehen- 
sions of the dangerous consequences, that he was induced to 
attend the meeting. But in spite of all his prejudices, the 
preacher drew his attention and led him to think that he was 
not such a dangerous deceiver as he had always before supposed. 
This was on Monday. The next Lord's day, the priest being ab- 
sent, and his father being clerk, performed as usual the duties of 
his office. As yet none of the family knew that Silas had been 
to the Baptist meeting. After the service of the day was 
over, a person asked him, in the hearing of his father, how he 
liked the Baptist preacher? He was much confused and knew 
not what to answer"; but his conscience obliged him to express 
some degree of approbation, at which the old gentleman burst 
into tears and exclaimed, " Silas, you are ruined!" and out he 
went, hastily home. Silas, alarmed, took hastily after him to 
soothe his grief and appease his resentment. The offended 
father and offending son were so deeply affected with the tri- 
fling affair, that they forgot their wives and left them to go 
home alone. The charm was now broken, and from this period 
Mr. Mercer began to entertain more favorable views of the 
people he had hitherto so much censured and despised. Not 
long after this he removed to G-eorgia, and settled in what is 
now Wilkes county, where, about 1775, he was baptized by Mr. 
Alexander Scott, and united with the church at Kiokee, by 
which he was almost immediately approbated to preach. At 
the commencement of the American war, he fled for shelter to 
Halifax county, in his native State, where he continued about 
six years, all of which time he was incessantly engaged in 
preaching as an itinerant in different places around ; and it is 



Silas Mercer. 229 

found by his journal that, taking the whole six years together, 
he preached oftener than once a day, that is, more than two 
thousand sermons in the time. At the close of the war, he re- 
turned to his former residence in Georgia, where he continued 
to the end of his days. In this State he labored abundantly 
with good effect, and was the means of planting a number of 
churches in different parts of the country. He was justly es- 
teemed one of the most exemplary and useful ministers in the 
Southern States. His learning was not great, but having a de- 
sire that his young brethren might obtain greater advantages 
than he enjoyed, he had set up a school at his house, procured 
an able teacher, and was in a promising way to promote the 
interests of learning in the churches around him ; but in the 
mid3t of his benevolent plans and distinguished usefulness he 
was, after a short illness, removed from the scene of his em- 
ployments, in 1796, in the fifty-second year of his age. 

The following portrait of Mr. Mercer's character is found in 
Mr. Semple's "History of the Virginia Baptists," page 82: 
" Mr. Mercer, both in countenance and manners, had consider- 
ably the appearance of sternness, and to feel quite free in his 
company it was necessary to be well acquainted with him. He 
seldom talked on any other subject except religion, and when in 
company with young preachers, or those who might question 
his doctrine or his opinions, his remarks chiefly turned ou po- 
lemical points. He was indefatigable in striving to maintain 
his opinions, and for this purpose would hear any and all ob- 
jections that could be raised, and would then labor assiduously 
to remove them. His arguments, however, neither in private 
or public life, Were ever dressed with oratorical ornaments. He 
spoke and acted like one who felt himself surrounded by the 
impregnable bulwarks of truth, and therefore did not wish to 
parley."* 

He was more distinguished as a preacher than writer, but he 
devoted considerable time to study, and the following pieces 
were the productions of his leisure hours : 

1st. "Tyranny Exposed and True Liberty Discovered," in a 
12 mo. pamphlet of sixty-eight pages, the design of which was 
to show the rise, reign and downfall of anti-Christ. 

*Mr. Mercer is here described as he appeared in Virginia, in 1791, in company with 
Jeremiah Walker, in the time of a great controversy respecting doctrinal points. 



230 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

2d. "The supposition of the Divine Eight of Infants to Bap- 
tism, from their formerly having a right to circumcision, con- 
futed," being a letter to a friend. This piece was not printed. 

3d. " The History of Baptism," carried to some extent, but 
left unfinished. 

4th. Two "Letters on Election," left unpublished. 

JAMES MATTHEWS, Sr. 

The subject of this memoir was born in Virginia, the 15th of 
October, A. D., 1755. His parents were Moses and Sarah Mat- 
thews, who were poor but reputable members of the " High 
Church," as it was then called, but without any knowledge of 
the regenerating influences of the Holy Spirit. Consequently 
they taught their son nothing of the necessity of the new birth. 
While James was quite an infant, his parents moved to South 
Carolina, where he grew up to manhood, with scarcely any 
other improvement than that gained by the labors of the field 
in procuring the necessary support for the family. 

It pleased the Lord, in his fifteenth year, to excite in him a 
solicitude about his future state. It was not, however, until 
August of his seventeenth year, that he became the subject of 
those heart-searching convictions which resulted in his being 
brought, about the middle of October, into the liberty of the 
gospel by faith in Christ. After enduring many doubts and 
fears for several months, he was baptized in March the follow- 
ing year, 1773, by Jacob Gibson, the venerable j)astor of the 
Baptist church on Little river, (or Broad river,) South Caro- 
lina, with which church he united. Under the ministry of Mr. 
Gibson he was nurtured for several years. About this time 
also, his parents, much to his comfort, became hopeful subjects 
of divine grace and united with the same church, in which pro- 
fession they lived happity, and died hopefully in a good old age. 

Soon after our brother had obtained hope in Christ, his mind 
became impressed with the condition of his fellow-men, and un- 
der a discourse from Elder A. Marshall, of Georgia, his feelings ' 
became so elevated that, ere he was aware, he was exhorting 
the people. After he was united with the church, his desire to 
do good to the souls of his fellow-creatures increased, and he 



James Matthews, Sr. 231 

became more deeply impressed with the duty of engaging in 
the ministry. But he was still deterred by his want of suita- 
ble qualifications. To supply his want of education, he en- 
deavored to make attainments in learning by every means in 
his power, but, for want of time and books, he never attained 
to that degree which he so much desired. The revolutionary 
war taking place, he was called into camp. Surrounded by 
loose, carnal company, he had but little opportunity, and less 
suitableness of spirit, for preaching. Still he could not be at rest. 

When far advanced in age, he wrote to a friend that from the 
first dawn of his christian hope his mind was impressed with the 
duty of publicly exhorting, though he had no expectation of en- 
tering upon the ministry — nay, the very thought was too much 
for him — but he could not suppress the desire to do good to his 
fellow-men. Tie was much disposed to solitude, and sought 
occasions to ride alone to meeting. One Sabbath morning, 
when thus riding alone on a private road, he was impressed to 
turn aside for prayer. He did so, and while at prayer the 
words, " I have chosen you to preach the gospel," seemed, like 
thunder, to burst from heaven into his heart. But instantly 
he felt a violent opposition to what seemed to him the will of 
God. He went to meeting in extreme anguish. At the close 
of the prayer the minister said, " Send thy gospel far and wide ; 
and for this end take thy gospel ministers near thee." At 
hearing these words he seemed himself to be taken near, even 
into the arms of the Saviour, and the words, " I have chosen 
you to preach the gospel," rushed with double force on his 
mind, and he trembled, so that he could scarcely regain his 
seat. This left an abiding impression on his mind that God 
had called him to preach the gospel to a dying world. But 
still he hesitated, under an appalling sense of his want of quali- 
fications. 

In the meantime, he had married a Mrs. Jenkins, a member 
of the church, hy whom he had one son. But it pleased God 
soon to remove her from him by death. This trying bereave- 
ment was the occasion of his becoming excited to a more active 
discharge of his duty, to which he was also encouraged by 
having received the approbation of the church to preach the 
gospel. 



232 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

In 1782, he moved into the State of Georgia with his mother- 
less little boy, and united with the Bed's creek church, under 
the care of Elder L. Savage, in Columbia county. He preached 
among them, and traveled as he had opportunity for two or 
three years. Having gained their approbation and esteem, ho 
was called to ordination, and came under the imposition of 
hands by a presbytery, namely, Elders L. Savage, D. Tinsly, S. 
Walker and A. Marshall, in 1785. With these excellent men 
he lived in high esteem, both as a christian and as a minister, 
during their lives. He now went forth as a missionary of the 
cross, filled with a fervid zeal for the Lord and an ardent love 
for the souls of men. He soon acquired general esteem, and 
his career promised, as it has by the grace of God accomplished, 
much usefulness. He married his second wife in 1786, Miss 
Eebecca Carlton, who was his mourning relict. She proved to 
be a help meet for him indeed, and "helped him much in the gos~ 
pel" Of the twelve children, three of the sons and an infant 
daughter, as also his first born son, are gone to their long home. 
One of the sons has since the death of his father, been ordained 
to the gospel ministry. The latter is a hopeful exhorter; and 
the other three are moral and respectable citizens. The three 
daughters all profess hope in Christ. 

It was not long before our brother attracted the attention of 
the churches, and was called into their service. The first church 
he was engaged with, was situated on Briar creek, in Burke 
county, at Botsford's old meeting-house. 

This church was constituted before the revolutionary war, 
under the ministry of that venerable man of God, Eev. Ed- 
mund Botsford, after whom it is called to this day. During 
the war it had dwindled almost to extinction ; but after his 
connection with it, the work of the Lord prospered under his 
labors. And in one year he had the unspeakable joy to lead 
seventy hopefully redeemed sinners into the yielding stream, 
and bury them in baptism with Christ, in hope of a glorious 
resurrection with him into enternal life. The work spread and 
two other churches were constituted, and the foundation of 
another was laid, which afterwards was built up. The two 
constituted were at Buckhead and Mobley's pond. In the for- 
mer he baptized about fifty ; and many others in the latter, as 



James Matthews, Sr. 233 

well as at Kocky creek, a branch of one of the churches. But 
falling sick, and remaining with his family in a declined state 
of health, he deemed it expedient to leave the low country. 
He moved to Wilkes county, and settled on a farm on Clark's 
creek, which was his unchanged residence till death. Here he 
soon became a member, and the pastor of the church at Clark's 
station. 

He undertook the pastoral care of this church about the year 
1789, and continued it about fifteen years. During this period 
he enjoyed much satisfaction. He had the esteem and confi- 
dence of church and j)eople; and labored much night, and day 
for their good. His zeal and fervent mind for the prosperity 
of the church and for the salvation of his congregation are 
embalmed with his devout prayers and many tears, in the ten- 
derest recollections of his numerous and affectionate surviving 
friends. But the season was barren — a wide spreading reli- 
gious dearth afflicted the State in many sections, and few 
churches suffered more than that at Clark's station. From the 
records of the Association it appears, very few were added to 
this church by baptism during his connection with it. At 
length a contention took place in the church, which disposed 
him to resign his office, and to unite himself with his sister 
church at Fishing creek. 

Of this church also, he became the pastor a few years before 
his death. In this relation he continued as the pastor in much 
affection, till age and disease made it necessary to retire from 
the office. But he continued a member in much christian love 
and esteem with all the brethren till his death. The church 
was in a very declined state when he joined it, and received 
but few additions, (chiefly of blacks.) Of late, however, a 
happy revival has taken place, and within two years nearly a 
hundred members have been added. It is now in a good state 
of resuscitation and joyful increase. 

He was called to the pastoral supply of several other churches, 
according to the custom in this part of the country, of having 
only one church meeting in a month. In this relation he was 
engaged with the church in Elbert county, at Hebron. 

He had been instrumental in gathering and constituting this 
church in the early part of his evangelical ministry, but when 



234 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

he moved down the country, Jeremiah Walker, from Virginia, 
became their pastor. He had been the subject of most shame- 
ful apostacy, and professing restoration, ho also professed a 
change of sentiment, and adopted certain unscriptural opinions. 
He was instrumental in drawing off a part of the members to 
his sentiments, and soon (for his powers of argumentation were 
great,) spread the defection into other churches, and succeeded, 
by the help of some other preachers, in effecting a division in 
the Association. This division among the Baptists (for at this 
time there was only one Baptist Association in Georgia,) filled 
the State with controversy. In those severe conflicts which 
tried men's souls, our beloved brother was much shaken. He 
was affectionately connected with several of the seceding party, 
and very much so with Mr. "Walker, which circumstance con- 
tributed not a little to his indecision and want of. firmness. 
But it pleased the Lord, as he believed, to save him from this 
unsoundness of mind, and more than ever to confirm his senti- 
ments respecting the sovereign and free grace of God. In ref- 
erence to this fact only a little before his death, he wrote to a 
friend thus : " My life is just gone — but had I a thousand lives 
and ten thousand tongues, I would willingly spend them all in 
the delightful work — in preaching the same doctrines, and in 
the same denomination. I say the same doctrine, for once the 
great Jeremiah Walker had well nigh led me to embrace the 
Arminian sentiments. Had it not been for my experience, the 
works of Providence and grace, more especially the character 
and goodness of God, I should have embraced those delusive 
errors." However, after his engagement with the regular part 
of this church, the death of Mr. Walker occurred, and his influ- 
ence died with him. Several of the disaffected members re- 
turned and sought union again with their deserted brethren, 
and better times ensued. He had the happiness of receiving 
sixty or seventy to baptism and the fellowship of the church 
in the term of his service with them, which was about twenty- 
five years. But the meeting-house being situated between 
Broad and Savannah rivers, and other churches being consti- 
tuted in more commodious places contiguous, and the number 
of members diminishing by deaths and removals, the church 



James Matthews, Sr. 235 

was regularly dissolved and the members united with the ad- 
joining churches. 

Our hrother was early in his ministry engaged with the 
church at Bocky Spring.- 

The church was situated in Wilkes (now Lincoln) county, 
near the Savannah river. Here he labored with good effect 
and much harmony and christian affection for. thirty years. 
He enjoyed two precious revivals, and baptized many happy 
believers. His own is, " That in one of these gracious seasons 
I baptized near by one hundred," and it is a fair calculation 
that in the other, and at all times, he did not receive less than 
one hundred. But we have no data at hand which will pre- 
cisely show how man}^. The veneration and christian' estima- 
tion in which he was held by church and people, fully appears 
in a letter and resolution he received from them on the occa- 
sion of his leaving. 

He served the church also as a pastoral supply for twenty 
years or more at Newford. 

This church lies in the northeast of Wilkes county, and here 
the labors of our brother were blessed with two precious revi- 
vals, in which he baptized more than a hundred, and saw the 
work of the Lord prosper in his hands. Here he labored until 
afflictions, a few years before his death, made it necessary to 
retire from all his pastoral services. 

In the same capacity he also attended a church in South 
Carolina, at Buffalo. In this church he had not the happiness 
to enjoy much success. He continued his labors for five years, 
baptized a few only, and declined his attendance. He then 
gave his services to the church at Greenwood. Here he en- 
joyed a good degree of success. In the short time he was en- 
gaged with this church he baptized about fifty. But some 
young ministers being raised up, after two years he left the 
church to their care and retired. 

In the course of his ministry, which continued upwards of 
forty years, he aided in the constitution of five churches and 
in the ordination of twenty-one ministers, and was the instru- 
ment of much usefulness. He died in a good old age of seventy- 
three years, highly esteemed for his work's sake. In his civil 
and social life he was innocent, honorable and generous. As a 



236 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

christian, he was devoted and persevering. As a minister, in 
prayer fervent, in exhortation warm, in doctrine clear— in all, 
ardent, zealous and indefatigable. He lived as he died, in the 
Lord. His views of himself were very humble ; he walked 
much in the vale of tears, and conversed much with his own 
heart. He often complained of his want of spiritual comforts 
to his confidential religious friends. Yet he was often on the 
mount enjoying the light of heaven and of God. 

He was particularly anxious for the salvation of his children. 
He was zealous to " bring them up in the nurture and admoni- 
tion of the Lord." He poured out his prayers and strong cries 
to God for them ; yet he saw no lasting symptoms of perma- 
nent hope until they were all grown and chiefly settled in 
families. This gave him " great heaviness and continual sor- 
row in his heart." He made several unsuccessful efforts to 
have them all assembled together once before he died, that he 
might detail to them his own christian experience and ground 
of hope, and address to them, as it were, his dying admonition. 
This he effected, in connection with a meeting to be continued 
several days, held at the church near him, some time before 
his death. One evening they all repaired to his house together 
with several of his brethren in the ministry, and having called 
the attention of all, he stated his earnest desire for their salva- 
tion, and his reasons for wishing them all together and the de- 
sign-of his address. He then rehearsed at length his religious 
experience and hope of salvation, and with much affection and 
earnestness exhorted them to flee from the wrath to come — to 
Jesus Christ the only Saviour. All was solemn, impressive and 
interesting. 

It pleased God, a little before his decease, to bring his son, 
named after himself, to the hope of the gospel, and to incline 
his mind to the ministry. His daughters soon after became 
hopeful believers, and, just before his death, another son made 
a declaration of his faith in Christ and transmitted an account 
of his experience to his father, but it was not received by the 
faniity until it was too late. 

Our beloved brother was the subject of severe and protracted 
afflictions, which he bore with patience and fortitude. In ad- 
dition to many other infirmities he lost his hearing. This was 



James Matthews, Sr. 237 

truly an affliction to him, as it broke off almost altogether his 
social enjoyments and intercourse. But it was observed that 
though he could not hear himself speak, he preached with more 
ardor and clearness than- before. About two years before his 
decease he was sick, in the. view of all his friends and of him- 
self, unto death. He was happily sustained in his religious 
feelings. His beloved pastor, Rev. James Armstrong, visited 
him, to whom he said, "After my departure, I wish you, or my 
brother Jesse Mercer — if he returns home in time, (for he was 
in New York, attending the General Convention,) — to deliver 
a discourse to my friends and brethren, from II. Corinthians, 
v. 8." But it was the will of God to raise him up, and he after- 
wards enjoyed pretty good health, and traveled and preached 
considerably. His last tour was to attend the General Asso- 
ciation of Georgia, where he preached the closing sermon, under 
sensible indications, as was reported by them that heard him, 
that it was to be his last. 

In his final sicknesss he languished for many days. His 
faith was fixed and his soul serene. When prayer was about 
to be made, he perceiving it, said, "Pray not for my recovery, 
for I wish to go." When almost past articulation, he said to 
his much beloved brother Mercer, in broken accents, "I believe 
I shall die of this disease. 

" 0, for some angel bands to bear 

My soul up to the skies, 
Where years of long salvation roll, 

And glory never dies." 

His pain in some measure ceased for some time before his 
death, and he lay quite composed, waiting till his change should 
come, which occurred on the afternoon of June 5th, 1828. His 
remains were deposited in his own grave-yard, at his late resi- 
dence. A short time after, his funeral sermon was preached by 
Mr. Mercer, from the text of his choice, " Willing rather to be 
absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord." 



238 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

EDMUND BYNE. 

This eminently pious and laborious servant of Christ was 
born and brought up to manhood in King and Queen county, 
Virginia. He was impressed with the reality and importance 
of divine things by the following dream, while he was yet a 
child: It seemed as if the judgment day had come. He saw 
Christ, the judge, sitting on a dazzling throne. Men were 
called, one by one, before him, and received their eternal doom. 
When it came to his turn, he was compelled to approach the 
judge. A large book was opened, in which he was required to 
read; and, to his utter astonishment, he saw therein a cata- 
logue of all the sins he had ever committed. When he had 
read over the list, the judge looked upon him with a stern 
countenance, and demanded of him whether he was "guilty or 
not guilty ? " He was about to open his mouth to pass sen- 
tence upon himself, when his agitation caused him to awake. 
The seriousness which ensued gave his parents (who were mem- 
bers of the high church) great anxiety. They supposed their 
son, who was a promising youth, to be somewhat deranged. 
Accordingly, blisters were applied to his head, and he was 
treated otherwise as a lunatic. 

After this, his convictions were deepened by a public discus- 
sion between one Iverson Lewis (an uncle of his) and an Epis- 
copal clergyman, on the subject of religion. Mr. Lewis was 
not then a professor, but afterwards became an eminent Bap- 
tist preacher in Virginia. He undertook to convince the cler- 
gyman and his members that they were all going to perdition 
together, and that, too, from the scriptures. His quotations 
were such as made solemn impressions on the mind of young 
Byne. 

At what precise age he was converted, is not known. But 
he was a man of family when he was baptized, as will hereaf- 
ter appear. At the time he obtained a hope in the pardoning 
mercy of God, he had agreed to run a horse-race, on which a 
large amount of money was bet. Horse-racing and dancing 
were so common in Virginia in those days, it was almost im- 
possible to live and not be connected with them in some way. 
As soon as Mr. Byne felt the love of God in his heart, he went 



Edmund Byne. 239 

to his opponent in the race and tried to get off from his en- 
gagement to run. He was flatly told, if he did not run he 
should pay the bet. "Well," said Byne, " I'll run ; but, if I 
win, (which I am sure I. shall do,) I'll give every dollar to some 
charitable object." An immense crowd was collected on the 
race-field. Mr. Byne won the race, as he expected. When he 
had received the purse, he called the attention -of the crowd, 
informed them of his effort to get off from running the race, 
and of his intention to devote the contents of the purse to 
charitable purposes, and closed by exhorting them to turn to 
the Lord. "And now," said he, " I shall run no other race ex- 
cept one — that is, the race to heaven. Farewell ! " 

When the Baptists began to preach in Virginia, he went to 
hear them, much against the wishes of his relatives and friends. 
Having been taught by them the way of the Lord more per- 
fectly, he resolved to submit to the ordinance of baptism. When 
he went down into the water, his oldest son (then a youth, not 
fully grown,) rode into the stream, threatening to horsewhip 
the minister. To such indignities and insults did our fathers 
have to submit in those days! Not many years thereafter, 
this young man, who had married and settled some distance 
from his father, was himself brought to a saving acquaint- 
ance with Christ. He and his father set out simultaneously 
to visit each other on the joyous occasion. They approached 
one another on the road — but the son was so absorbed in devo- 
tion, his eyes following heavenwards where his thoughts led, 
as not to discover his father until they met. " John, where are 
you going?" "To heaven," was the immediate reply. The 
father and son rushed into each others arms, and a scene fol- 
lowed upon which God smiled, and over which angels rejoiced. 

In 1785, Mr. Byne and several other families from Virginia 
landed in Savannah. They had a most boisterous and danger- 
ous passage out, having been at sea six weeks, most of the time 
driven with the tempests hither and thither. Having letters 
of introduction to the G-overnor of Georgia, they were kindly 
received, and had a house furnished them for temporary use by 
that excellent functionary. Mr. Byne soon found a home in 
Burke county, where he lived, and labored, and died. 

He and his wife had not Ion 2* been settled in their new abode, 



240 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

•when news reached them of a glorious revival of religion, then 
prevailing in Virginia. Mr. Byne had commenced preaching 
before he came. to Georgia; and now his spirit was so stirred 
within him, t'lfat he and his wife went throughout the neigh- 
borhood, from house to house, exhorting the people and pray- 
ing with them. Religion was a hissing and a by-word in Burke 
county; but as these pious souls sent up their prayers, with 
strong cries and tears, the Lord avenged them speedily. Un- 
der his preaching, many souls were born into Zion. The Eocky 
creek church called Mr. Byne to ordination, which he had sev- 
eral times declined in his native State. IsTow, he felt it his duty 
to yield to the wishes of his brethren, and especially of those 
who had recently been converted under his ministry. Accord- 
ingly,"^ was ordained by David Tinsley and Loveless Savidge, 
and soon baptized some seventy or eighty persons. 

Though of some eccentricity of character, he was neverthe- 
less a fearless and faithful servant of the Lord, as will appear 
from the following anecdotes. Not long after he joined the 
church, he was invited by some of his former companions in 
sin to attend a dancing party, which he engaged to do, on con- 
dition, expressly agreed to, that he should give direction to all 
the exercises of the evening. When the party assembled, Mr. 
Byne appeared in their midst, accompanied by several church 
members, who were good singers. The violin at length sent 
forth its enlivening notes, when a young lady stepped up to him, 
and invited the preacher to lead in the dance. He politely 
took her arm, stepped out on the floor, required the music to 
cease, and after reminding the managers of the condition upon 
which he agreed to attend, struck up a spiritual song. The 
church members immediately joined him. The song concluded, 
he engaged in prayer. Another song was followed by a second 
prayer. By this time tears were flowing from many eyes. 
The ball was converted into a prayer meeting. The people of 
the house, with others of the company, became pious, and this 
was the last dance ever attempted to be held there. After his 
removal to Georgia, he was in the habit of preaching at Waynes- 
boro, in Burke county. A certain Mr. Jones, who was un- 
friendly to religion, threatened that if Mr. Byne came again to 
Waynesboro to preach, he intended to give him a text that 



Dozier Thornton. 241 

would puzzle him. Sure enough, the next time he rose before 
the people, Mr. Jones was there, and demanded of Mr. Byneto 
preach without meditation from the words, " Ye serpents, ye 
generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the 
wrath that is to come !" So little did Mr. Jones know about 
the Scriptures, that he understood the words according to their 
literal meaning. It was a good weapon for Mr. Byne, and it 
was said he used it to such effect that Mr. Jones declared he 
" never would give another Baptist preacher a cudgel with 
which to beat his own head." 

When advanced in life, his infirmities were such as to render 
it necessary that he should resign all pastoral charges. He 
had been a most laborious and self-denying preacher. No state 
of weather, however inclement, could stop him from n is ap- 
pointments. When the rain poured in torrents, he would put 
on his great-coat, wrap a blanket about his shoulders, and post 
off to his meetings. Though confined mostly to his house for 
several months preceding his death, yet a short time before his 
departure he insisted on being propped up with pillows in his 
carriage and conveyed to the regular meeting of the church of 
which he was a member. He was helped into the meeting- 
house, and, being bolstered up in front of the pulpit, he ad- 
dressed the congregation for the last time. He spoke as a dy- 
ing man indeed ! It was a solemn and affecting season. Sev- 
eral afterwards joined the church who dated their awakening 
from these last words of G-od's aged servant. He returned to 
his home to die, which solemn event took place in February, 
1814. 

DOZIEE THOKNTOK 

The subject of this notice was also a Virginian. Lunenburg 
county was the place of his birth, which occurred April 14th, 
1755. His father's name was Mark Thornton, and his mother's 
Susannah Dozier. The former was a High Churchman and the 
latter a Baptist. In youth he was fond of playing on the violin 
and other instruments. When he left the paternal roof, he en- 
gaged in the business of overseeing in the upper part of North 
Carolina, where he had opportunities of hearing the gospel 
from the lips of a Baptist minister of the name of Lunsford. 
16 



242 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

The word was sanctified to his conviction, and after enduring 
great distress of mind for several weeks, he was enabled to em- 
brace Christ as his Saviour while following his plough in the 
field. He immediately ungeared his horse, went to the house 
of his employer, (a widow woman,) and told her and the family 
of the great things God had done for his soul. He then asked 
permission to talk to the servants, which being granted, he ex- 
horted/them to forsake their sins and turn to God. Thus he 
began to preach Jesus before he joined the church. He was 
baptized by Elder Lunsford, and soon thereafter ordained by 
him and others. 

He soon extended his labors far and wide, and preached in- 
cessantly. Several churches were raised up as the fruits of his 
early labors. After his marriage to a Miss Hill, lie removed 
to Georgia and settled in Elbert county, about the year 1784. 

The brethren in North Carolina whom he left so reluctantly, 
obtained a promise from him to visit them as often as possible. 
He accordingly made several tours back to the old North State, 
in one of which he experienced a gracious revival in one of his 
old churches and baptized a considerable number. ' During his 
journeys to and from North Carolina, many things occurred 
which are worthy of being recorded. A few of these only can 
we introduce here. Stopping at a house one evening, where 
he intended to pass the night, he saw some signs which led 
him to inquire of his host " If the family had been to meet- 
ing?" "Yes." "To a Baptist meeting?" " No, they are a 
people that I hate ; I would not give house room to any of 
them." "You must, then, turn me out of doors, for I am a 
Baptist. But what objections have you to the Baptists ?" 
" They are an ignorant people, and I will not come down so 
low as to talk to them." His horse was immediately brought 
out, and our preacher left the inhospitable abode of his Episco- 
j)al landlord. 

On another occasion, he met a female near one of his ap- 
pointments, whom he asked, "Have you heard of meeting at 
such a place ?" " Yes." "Are you not going?" " No, I can't 
go ; I have no shoes to wear." Having passed her a short dis- 
tance, it occurred to him that he had but one dollar ; yet, as 
the scripture came to his mind, " He that giveth to the poor 



Dozier Thornton. 243 

lendeth to the Lord," he turned around, and calling the woman, 
gave her that one dollar, telling her to buy herself shoes and go 
to meeting hereafter — then went on his way with a light heart* 
He was then three hundred miles from home, and not a cent 
in his pocket. Having reached his appointment and preached, 
however, his brethren (who knew nothing of his want of funds,) 
presented him with four dollars. 

Late one evening he rode up to a house. The woman was 
engaged in milking cows. The first salutation was, " I say, 
good woman, are you a christian?" "I hope so?" Having 
obtained her husband's consent to pass the night with them, 
he alighted. Supper over, he asked the woman to give a reason 
for the hope she professed. She related a sound christian expe- 
rience, whereupon he inquired, "Why have you not been bap- 
tized?" "It is what I have greatly desired, but there is no 
church within some forty miles of us, and I have as yet had no 
opportunity to obey the Saviour's command in this matter." 
"Are you willing for me to baptize you now?" "Yes, b} r all 
means." A torch was soon prepared by her husband ; they 
three repaired to a creek some half a mile distant, where he 
buried this believing woman in baptism. The next morning 
he left with her a certificate of her baptism and proceeded on 
his tour. 

The same day he came in sight of a fine dwelling, discover- 
able through a beautiful avenue, shaded with trees on either 
side. A strong impression came upon his mind to go up to the 
house and pray for its inhabitants. Without hesitation, he 
turned up the avenue. The lady came to the door, to whom 
he promptly stated his errand. She kindly invited him to 
alight and come in, and though neither she nor any of the 
family made any pretensions to religion, the strange preacher 
was treated with great respect. The husband being absent, 
the lady, two sons and two daughters, with the domestics, list- 
ened to the good man's exhortation, his song, and bowed with 
him in prayer, while he fervently plead with God on their be- 
half. This done, he bade them farewell and departed, expect- 
ing to see them no more this side of the eternal world. , Several 
months afterwards, two strange young men came into Elbert 
county, inquiring for Eev. Dozier Thornton, who proved to be 



244 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

the sons of the family above referred to, and who. with their 
her and sisters, had, by his visit, all been awakened to a 
?e of their lost condition as sinners, had been hopefulh T eon- 
verted, and had now traveled all the way from North Carolina 
ek baptism at the hands of him whose prayer had been 
answered in their salvation. They were accordingly baptized, 
1 returned homewards rejoicing. 

For a time, in connection with Thomas Johnson and Little- 
ton IkfeekSj he acted as a missionary to the Cherokee Indians. 

A flourishing church, situated on High tower river, was con- 
stitute! and kept up among them until their .emigration to the 
West. In this service he endured great deprivations and hard- 
ships. Once he and Littleton Meeks lost their way among the 
mountains, and after traveling until a late hour at night, they 
were compelled to take up in the woods, without fire or food, 
and wait for the dawning of the day. They were prevented 
from closing their eyes in sleep by the barking of the foxes and 
the howling of wolves. 

The churches at Dover's creek and Van's creek were raised 
up under his ministry soon after he came to Georgia, of which 
he was pastor near forty years / with the exception of about 
twenty months, which he spent in Kentucky. He removed to 
that State with a view to a permanent residence, but soon be- 
came convinced that he was not acting under the guidance of 
Providence, and returned to his old neighborhood in Elbert 
county, where he spent the remainder of his life. It is related 
of him that on one of his journeys to Kentucky he fell in with 
a family among the mountains, living in a small, fertile valley, 
which was thickly settled by a most irreligious commuuity. 
Finding out that he was a preacher, they invited him to stop 
for the night, promising that they would blow the horn in a cer- 
tain manner, which would cause the neighbors to collect, when 
he could preach to them. He was the more willing to comply 
when he was assured there had not been a sermon preached 
among them for twelve years. About sunset the horn was ac- 
cordingly blown, and he had a congregation of about thirty, to 
whom he dispensed the word. The most of them were much 
affected and begged him to leave an appointment for his return. 
He accordingly agreed to preach to them again on a certain 



Thomas Walsh. 245 

evening on his way home. When he did return, however, it 
was with several other travelers, with whom he was desirous 
to keep company through the Indian nation, as it was perilous 
to pass through that region alone. As they would not wait, 
however, he permitted them to leave him behind. His meeting 
in the valley of the mountains was one of so much interest, 
that he concluded to continue waiting upon the Lord several 
days. He accordingly held a protracted meeting, baptized a 
goodly number of believers, whom he constituted into a church, 
"With one of their number, who seemed to possess a gift for 
teaching, he left his Bible and hymn book, admonishing him 
and his brethren to continue faithful unto death. 

About a year afterwards, Mr. Thornton, after spending a 
restless night, rose early one morning and told his wife he 
must go and see his children whom he had left in the wilder- 
ness. The same day he was on the road. When he reached 
the valley, to his surprise he found the people had erected a 
comfortable house for the worship of God, and that many others 
had experienced saving grace through the instrumentality 
of him with whom he had left his Bible and hymn book. 
This brother Mr. Thornton ordained, the new converts were 
baptized, they were all commended to the care of the Good 
Shepherd, and he bade them farewell, to see their faces no more 
on earth. 

He raised eight sons and eleven daughters, all of whom are 
members of the church except one. Eev. Beuben Thornton, an 
excellent minister, was one of his children. He departed this 
life in Franklin county, in this State, in September, 1843, in 
the ninetieth vear of his asre. 



THOMAS WALSH, 

Of Irish descent, was born in Savannah, Georgia, about 1800, 
and was apprenticed to the printing business. He united with 
the Methodists, but expressed scruples about their baptism. 
He was licensed to preach, and sent to Athens to prepare for 
college, sustained by the Georgia Education Society. While at 
Athens, his previous convictions of duty about baptism re- 
turned, and he could not be silent. He writes his wife, (then 



246 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

in Savannah,) who it seems had long been convinced of the 
duty of following the Saviour, and she entreats him to return 
to that city, that they may both be baptized together. 

Mr. Walsh was attempted to be dissuaded from joining the 
Eaptists by a distinguished Methodist minister, who repre- 
sented the Calvinistic faith in most horrible colors. This for a 
while staggered the young disciple. He desired baptism from 
an authorized administrator, but he could not adopt the Bap- 
tist faith with its supposed decrees and partial election. Soon 
after this, Fuller's works fell into his hands. After reading 
them, he found no difficulty, for, said he, " If these be the views 
of the Baptists, I can adopt them with all my heart." 

After his baptism in Savannah, by Eev. "H. 0. Wyer, he re- 
moved his family to Athens, was taken under the patronage of 
the Georgia Baptist Convention, and advised to take a. regular 
collegiate course. But he was poor, and the support he re- 
ceived was not actually sufficient to relieve his wants. One 
day he went to purchase a little sugar with the last dollar he 
possessed. He expended three-fourths of his all, and returning 
to the post-office in a despairing state of mind, was told there 
was a letter for him — postage twenty-five cents. He hesitated 
about expending his last cent, but, on opening the letter, found 
enclosed twenty dollars. The kind donor was never known to 
him. 

After remaining a year or two in college he returned to Sa- 
vannah, where he acted for a time as city missionary. In this 
sphere he was eminently useful, but continued in it only about 
a year, when he was called to the pastoral charge of Eoberts- 
ville church, South Carolina. To this enlightened and wealthy 
church he greatly endeared himself; yet, owing mainly to the 
state of his health, he was induced to remove hence to Coosa- 
hatchie. While in South Carolina he received ample support, 
and was thus enabled to devote all his energies to the improve- 
ment of his mind. The consequence was, he rose rapidly in 
reputation and was soon considered one of the ablest ministers 
in the Savannah River Association, and, indeed, in the State. 
He had been to attend a session of that body in 1833, was 
taken sick at Dr. Ayre's, and lived only some two weeks. His 
remains were taken back to Coosahatchie. 



Vincent Tharp. 247 

He was accused after his death of leaning towards the Epis- 
copalians, and the report went out that if he had lived he would 
have joined that denomination. The only ground for this re- 
port was the friendship between Mr. Walsh and the Episcopal 
minister of Coosahatchie. He was a man of an amiable and 
affectionate disposition, and was a speaker of rare talents. Few 
men of his age were so eloquent. 



YIXCENT THARP 



A native of Virginia, was born in 1760, and bore arms in the 
cause of his country towards the close of the revolutionary 
war. His first wife was a Miss Kogers, by whom he had two 
children, a son and a daughter. During his first marriage he 
removed to South Carolina, and thence with his second wife, a 
Miss Persons, to Warren county, in this State. Owing to the 
hardness of the times, and his being a poor man, he learned 
the gunsmith's trade, and was said to be a superior workman. 
Before he entered upon the ministry he acted as a magistrate 
in his neighborhood. He was baptized into Briar Creek church, 
Warren county, and was also licensed and ordained there, about 
the year 1800. He served that church as pastor several years, 
also Sweetwater and Eocky Creek, in Burke county. Soon 
after the purchase, which extended to the Ocmulgee river, he 
removed to Twiggs county, where many of his descendants are 
still to be found, and who are among the most respectable and 
wealthy citizens of the county. Among these may be men- 
tioned Rev. Char nick Tharp, a son, and Rev. B. F. Tharp, (now 
of Houston count} 7 ,) a grand-son. 

He was a member and the pastor of Stone Creek church, 
now one of the most flourishing churches in the State. That 
church was gathered under Rev. Henry Hooten, who resigned 
in favor of Mr. Tharp. His labors here and elsewhere were 
owned of the Lord in the salvation of many souls. ■ To the time 
of his death he was moderator of the Ebenezer Association. 
Benevolence and hospitality were prominent traits in his charac- 
ter. He was always " careful to entertain strangers," and his 
house was the home of God's people, of every name. He de- 
lighted in the society of certain brethren, Polhill, Franklin, 



248 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

Eoss, Rhodes, Baker, Maginty, Mercer and others, by whom 
he was frequently visited. lie died in 1825, in the triumphs of 
that faith which he had so long preached to others. His end 
was peace. 

JEREMIAH REEVES, Jr. 

Jeremiah Reeves, Jr., was the second son of Jeremiah Reeves, 
Sr., and Jane, his wife, whose maiden name was Brazile. He 
was born in Halifax county, North Carolina, on the third day 
of November, 1772, and removed with his father's family to 
Georgia in his twelfth year. He obtained hope that God for 
Christ's sake had pardoned his sins, in the year 1804 — was 
added to the Church at Sardis, Wilkes county, Georgia, in the 
same year. " With regard to his conviction or conversion I* 
have no data but my own recollection. One incident is now 
fresh, because at the time it made a most powerful impression. 
I was then in my eighth year ; he was a man of lively turn of 
mind and fond of such company. Now for the incident. I 
went in company with him to a distillery in the neighborhood; 
(I have heard him say since, in relating his experience, he went 
there to try to drive off his melancholy feelings.) While there, 
I saw him once or more shedding tears, which affected me. 
We, however, left for home ; when about half the distance, he 
stopped and wept aloud. Said, he to me, " Son, go home and 
1 311 your mother I am such a vile sinner I believe the Lord is 
about to kill me." I obeyed, went home ; he left the road and 
went into the woods. My mother, on my arrival, went in 
search ; found him near night, and brought him home, still 
weeping. During the night he found deliverance ; prayed 
with the family next morning, which I have no recollection of 
his ever failing to do, night and morning, from that time till 
his death. He held family prayers always, when even confined 
to a sick bed." 

He was chosen and ordained to the office of deacon of Sardis 
church in 1806, and commenced public exercise in prayer and 
exhortation soon after he united with the church. In 1813, 
the church at Skull Shoals sent an invitation to him, as also 
the church at Sardis, to take the pastoral charge of them. 

*His son, A. E. Reeves. 



Jeremiah Reeves, Jr. 249 

Sardis church submitted the matter to him, requesting him to re- 
late his call to the ministry, which he did. But he being some- 
what undetermined with regard to his fitness, requested an in- 
definite suspension of the matter. The church, however, pro- 
ceeded to license him at the next conference, (he having become 
more reconciled,) in the words of the church minutes, "for fur- 
ther proof of his ministry." At the July conference, 1813, the 
church agreed to call a presbytery for the purpose of his ordina- 
tion. Wednesday after the fourth Sabbath in August, 1813, was 
the day set apart. The presbytery, composed of Matthews, 
Ehodes and Davis, met according to appointment, and proceeded 
to his ordination. He then responded to the call of the churches 
above named, and became their pastor in the same year. In 
the year 1815, having received a call from a church in Clarke 
county, and from one in Morgan, he removed from "Wilkes to 
the former county. His labors were confined to those and con- 
tiguous counties for eight years, serving the three churches al- 
luded to a portion of the time. In 1823, being impressed that 
it was his duty to change his field of labor, to some extent, and 
having received a call from two churches in Jackson county, he 
removed to said county, serving one church still (Mar's Hill) 
in Clarke county, and Walnut Fork and Academy, in Jackson. 
Here (a brother, I. Davis, from that county, writes me) " he 
encountered considerable difficulty and persecution on account 
of his stern advocacy of the mission and temperance cause, 
The Association (the Sarepta) in which he was then thrown, 
was anti. At that time he persevered temperately but firmly, 
till he became instrumental in forming many societies through- 
out the bounds of the Association, and also the means of get- 
ting up a good missionary spirit." 

While resident in Jackson county, he received an appoint- 
ment from the Georgia Baptist Convention. His field of labor 
was mostly confined to the Cherokee country. He traveled 
two years through that section, part of the time on his own 
account, and part under appointment of the Convention ; met 
with and encountered many hardships, as the country was wild 
and just settling up. He was one of the first pioneers to that 
section of the State— aided in constituting several churches, 



250 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

< 

ordained deacons, formed temperance societies, and inculcated 
the missionary spirit wherever his lot was cast. 

He was married to Mary Echols in the year 1794, in the 
twenty-second year of his age. She united with the church a 
short time after he did ; was the mother of nine children — five 
sons and four daughters. Two of the daughters are dead and 
two living. Five sons yet living, three of them members of 
the church, and both daughters also. The old lady survived 
him several years. 

His labors as a minister was not characterized by any great 
accessions at any one time to his churches, but by gradual in- 
crease of such as wore well. His churches were generally well 
disciplined. It was his practice to urge strenuously and to have 
kept up weekly prayer meetings at the respective meeting- 
houses he attended, or in the neighborhood. Prayer was al- 
ways his great weapon of defense. He prayed much. "I recol- 
lect an incident, which is as follows : An individual in the 
neighborhood, a wicked man, fell out with the old man ; rode 
up to the gate one day and called father out, abased him much, 
threatening to sue him. He replied calmly to the threat by 
saying, ' I will sue you, too.' ' Sue me ?' was the inquiry, ac- 
companied with abuse. ( Yes, I will sue you at the court of 
heaven. There it is where I institute all my suits, and where 
I enter all my appeals, and have hitherto had justice done me, 
and I am sure I will have it again.' In his family worship, 
and I presume in private, he did not fail for some time to pre- 
sent this man's case to a throne of grace. The consequence 
was, that after the lapse of time, that man became his friend 
without any explanation on the part of father. 

" He died at my house, at Mount Zion, on the 27th of January, 
1737, in the sixty-fifth year of his age. His remains were in- 
terred in the burying ground of the Baptist church at said 
village. 

" He was then on a tour of several weeks' appointments in the 
low country. He preached, sang and prayed at intervals du- 
ring his whole sickness, which lasted some two weeks, during 
which time he would frequently urge me to take him in some 
vehicle to meet his appointments, remarking that it was a set- 
tled principle with him not to disappoint a congregation. To- 



Jabez Pleiades Marshall. 251 

ward the latter part of his illness he lost the power of recollec- 
tion, but seemed to retain his rationality. A few incidents in a 
short way : 

"When he was found to be sinking, the physician prescribed 
brandy-toddy. (He at this time could not tell what was his 
own, the name of his companion, or any of his children, or that 
he had any family.) The toddy was offered ; he refused, which 
was the first thing refused from the hands of his physician or 
friends during his illness, remarking in his own words, " That 
is the old Prince — I cannot encounter him ; I know his power 
too well. I have long since declared against him." As re- 
marked, he seemed to have lost the power of recollection, from 
the fact we could not bring his mind to bear upon any circum- 
stance in his former days. All seemed to be lost so far as per- 
tained to the things of this world. But speak of the Saviour, 
or God the Father, or of heaven, he was as perfectly conversant 
as at any time in his life, and when he could not tell his own 
name, would quote scripture as correctly, sing hymns, pray as 
connectedly and as appropriately as I ever heard him. Not an 
hour before his death, Mr. Bryan, a Presbyterian brother, was 
asked to pray. He accordingly sang ; father joined in the 
singing ; would wait for the giving out of the lines, as the rest 
of us. When we knelt down, father commenced audibly to 
pray as Mr. Bryan did ; both prayed. He closed before Mr. 
Bryan, continued to respond to Mr. Bryan's petitions until he 
closed — and yet could not tell where he was ! 

"He bore his affliction with patient resignation, was sensible 
of hi,s death, and possessed strong confidence of his acceptance 
with God." 



JABEZ PLEIADES MARSHALL. 

Jabez P. Marshall was the eldest son of the venerable and la- 
mented Abraham Marshall. He had an only brother, and they 
were the only children of their father ; and as they were the 
children of rather his old age, like Jacob of old, he entertained 
for them a peculiar fondness. Jabez grew up rather in a prodi- 
gal way; full of the fashion and the pride of life, he exhibited 
very little regard for religion, though his father took great 



252 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

care to bring him up in the nurture and admonition of the 
Lord. lie was desirous also to afford him every opportunity 
for improvement and for the acquisition of that knowledge 
which he thought necessary to his future usefulness. Still, 
however, Jabcz was bent upon a course of evil, frivolity and 
vanity. While at college in Athens, Georgia, he was very 
wild, and seemed more like a son of an infidel than of a pious, 
gospel minister. Some of his friends feared that all the care 
and expense of his anxious father would be lost or turned to 
bad account. 

But it was pleasing to the Lord, about the time our young 
friend graduated, or soon after, to bring his mind under serious 
conviction for sin. He saw T himself a sinner, justly condemned 
by the holy law and exposed to everlasting wrath and misery. 
He knew not what to do. It w T as then that he inquired anx- 
iously what he must do to be saved ? but could find no relief 
by all that he could do, until he at length came to rely simply 
and alone upon Christ and him crucified. In him he saw a 
righteousness every way sufficient to justify him against all the 
claims of Divine Justice, to pardon all his sins, though moun- 
tain high in magnitude and in number, and to render him ac- 
cepted in the beloved. Upon this he united with the church 
at the Kiokee, and soon after began to exhort his fellow-men 
to flee from the wrath to come. In due time he was licensed 
to preach, and not a great while thereafter he was ordained to 
the work of the ministry. 

There was something in our young brother, perhaps consti- 
tutional, which gave him an air of vanity and fickleness, and 
from which many of his friends feared for his success ; but he 
rose above all their fears, and soon convinced them that he was 
a chosen vessel of the Lord to be an able minister of the New 
Testament. He succeeded his father in the pastoral office in 
the Kiokee church, in which he served with increasing affec- 
tion and usefulness until his death. 

As regards his religious sentiments, he was strictly a predes- 
tinarian. His theme was free grace. He believed that man, as 
a sinner, is totally depraved — dead in trespasses and sins, so 
that nothing good can be done until that state is changed ; and 
that this can be done alone by the spirit of life in Christ Jesus. 



Jeptha Vining. 253 

But still he held men to be morally "bound to obey God, accord- 
ing to his righteous claims on them as rational beings, account- 
able for the right use of their natural powers, and justly con- 
demned for not rendering them back to God in holy obedience. 
That none did this, and consequently all were justly condemned. 
He inculcated practical religion on professors as the only evi- 
dence of a gracious state and the means whereby they can glo- 
rify God. He was a thorough-going missionary, and engaged 
in all the benevolent plans of the day, zealously advocating 
every scheme which seemed to be calculated to carry out the 
commission and fulfill the commands of Christ. 

As a preacher he was studious, aiming constantly at a strict 
compliance with the injunction of Paul on Timothy, regarding 
it as an injunction alike upon all that minister in holy things : 
"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that 
neccleth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth," 
As the priests were to bring none but beaten oil into the tab- 
ernacle for light, our brother thought it wrong for him to bring 
discourses into the church, which cost him no care, and in this 
sense attempt to worship God with unbeaten oil. 

In the delivery of his sermons he was clear, zealous and 
touching. Sometimes, apart from his eccentricities, which 
were regretted by his friends, he was eloquent and profound. 

As regards his general course, he was persevering, punctual 
and indefatigable. His body was frail and his constitution 
weak. It is believed his incessant labors and the little care he 
seemed to take of himself, were the cause, speaking after the 
manner of men, of his early removal. The immediate cause of 
his death was the measles, which excited the latent diseases of 
his constitution, baffled all medical skill, and terminated his 
earthly existence, in April, 1832. 

JEPTHA VINING. 

Yery little of the early life of this veteran soldier of the cross 
is known. Where he was born, or where educated; where or 
when he entered upon the work of the ministry, is alike hid- 
den in the obscurity of the past. The first account we have of 
him is, in 1755 he was a messenger of the Lynch's creek church 



254 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

in the Charleston Association. He is marked in the minutes 
as a minister, and the presumption is, was at this time, pastor 
of the church. He appears again as the representative of the 
Upper Fork of Lynch's creek, and this is all the record we find 
of him in the Charleston Association. 

But from sundry persons who have emigrated from that part 
of South Carolina to this State, with whom we have had an 
intimate acquaintance, some of whom were members of the 
said Lynch's creek church, and who sat under his ministry, we 
have learned that he was a zealous, faithful and very success- 
ful minister of the gospel. He, it is believed, was instrumental 
in rearing up several churches in that section before he removed 
to Georgia, which was during, or soon after the revolutionary 
war. It appears he settled upon the Eocky Comfort creek, 
about twelve miles above Louisville. Here he commenced 
preaching, and soon raised a church, which was called Provi- 
dence, and is still in existence. 

Having lost his wife at this place, he, some time after, sought 
and found another, about twenty miles above, on the Ogeechee 
river, to which place he removed his residence, and immedi- 
ately commenced preaching at a Mr. Fowler's, where his min- 
istry was so blessed that a church was constituted, and still 
exists as the Long Creek church of Ogechee. He was called 
to the pastoral care of this church, whilst he continued also to 
supply the Providence church. He was instrumental in getting 
up some other preaching establishments, but whether he acted 
as pastor in any, save the two already mentioned, does not cer- 
tainly appear. He closed his distinguished and useful life about 
the year 1787, in full belief of the truth of those doctrines he 
had advocated during his long and successful ministry. 

Mr. Yining was a firm believer in the Calvinistic doctrines, 
and, of course, constantly defended them — such as election, pre- 
destination, effectual calling, and the final perseverence of the 
saints through grace to eternal glory. These were his constant 
and favorite topics. It has been, we know, the opinion of 
many that the preaching of these doctrines is not favorable to 
the conversion of sinners ; but the reverse of this was mani- 
fested in the ministry of Mr. Yining. He preached the doctrine 
of election without reserve. It was his theme, and yet few have 



Rev. Samuel Spry Law. 255 

been more successful in the conversion of sinners to God, and 
in promoting practical godliness in the churches. 

KEY. SAMUEL SPEY LAW. 

The Rev. Samuel Spry Law, the son of Joseph and Elizabeth 
Law, was born in Liberty county, Georgia, in the year 1774. 
His father removed from Charleston, South Carolina, some 
years before the birth of his son, Samuel, and settled on the 
seaboard of Liberty county, and engaged in planting. He was 
a man of piety — a member of the Episcopal church — of strict 
integrity and great firmness. His mother, whose maiden name 
was Spry, was a woman of uncommon fortitude, as we may 
learn from a little incident in her life, which occurred during 
the darkest period of the revolutionary war. On one occasion, 
while her husband was absent from home, their house was plun- 
dered by the tories. She was alone with her children. Upon 
leaving, they attempted to set fire to the house, but to this she 
would not submit. As soon as they had kindled a fire, she ex- 
tinguished it, for which she was knocked down. They attempt- 
ed to fire the building the second time, and the second time she 
put the fire out and was knocked down. This was repeated the 
third time, when some of the party, with a little more feeling 
than the rest, persuaded their companions to desist and not 
burn the house. Their son, Samuel, inherited the firmness of 
his parents, for he was a man of undaunted courage and great 
firmness of purpose. He grew up during the days of "saddle- 
bag teachers " and " old-field schools " — names very expressive 
of the intellectual furniture of the schoolmaster, and literary 
fertility of the institutions — and he consequently received only 
the barest rudiments of an English education, such as spelling, 
reading, writing and simple arithmetic. The best advantages 
he enjo} T ed during his youth, were from a two years' residence 
in the family of a French Marquis, on Sapelo island. In that 
family he learned to speak the French language with tolerable 
fluency, and he there acquired that ease and suavity of man- 
ners which continued with him through life. 

After he became of age and settled in life, his position in so- 
ciety gave him the advantages of association with intelligent 



256 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

and educated men, which his naturally strong mind and sound 
judgment turned to good account. His occupation was that of 
a planter. Up to the age of forty, he was strictly a man of the 
world. He was a man of high toned feeling, proud, fond of gay 
life, generous and hosjritable almost to a fault. He was passion- 
ately fond of military life, and indulged his taste as far as cir- 
cumstances would allow. At the age of twentj'-five, he married 
Miss Mary Anderson, of Liberty county, who lived but eleven 
months after the marriage. She left one son, who survwed his 
mother but eighteen months. In 1802, he was married to Miss 
Rebecca Gr. Hughes, of Charleston, by whom he had ten chil- 
dren, some of whom are still living. Soon after his second mar- 
riage, he made Sunbury the place of his summer residence. In 
this place there was a Congregational church, and about this 
time a Baptist church began to rise up under the labors of Eev. 
C. O. Screven. Mr. Law and his family became members of the 
congregation of the Congregational church, and some time after 
his connection with that congregation, he was elected clerk of 
the selectmen, as we learn from a letter dated 1811, written by 
the Baptist church to the Congregational church, and addressed 
to Captain S. S. Law, as clerk of the selectmen of the Congre- 
gational church. In the opposition (and there was much,) that 
was made to the establishment of a Baptist church in Sunbury, 
he took a very active part. Some one or two years after this, 
his wife having experienced a change of heart, expressed a de- 
sire to unite herself to the Baptist church. This was very much 
against his wishes, and contrary to his expectations, still he did 
not oppose her, but simply said to her, "You can do as you 
please ; but remember, when I become a christian, I shall go 
the other way." It was about this time that, rejecting the doc- 
trine of regeneration, he commenced becoming moralist, upon 
which he rested his hope of acceptance with God. In accord- 
ance with his plan, he became a strict moralist, holding worship 
morning and evening in his family, which he continued for a 
while, but at length, "finding it useless," as he said, he gave it 
up. This attempt at self-justification by good works, doubtless 
arose from a heart ill at ease respecting his future state. 

Among his papers was found a brief account of his feelings, 
the fall of 1814, before his conversion ; it was written after his 



Rev. Samuel Spry Laic. 257 

conversion. Here follows as much of it as is deemed necessary : 
" The day I was forty years of age, I thought much of another 
world, and prayed most fervently to God that if there really 
was another state of existence, and a change of heart was nec- 
essary, that I might be convinced of it before the year was out 
or rather before I was forty-one years of age. My mind was 
more serious than usual all the fall ; frequently found myself 
absorbed in thought, and at times so absent that I was hardly 
able to attend to business. In the month of December follow- 
ing, a Mr. Flint, a young clergyman from New England, came 
to my house. I was pleased with his appearance and manners ; 
he was to preach in the meeting-house in the evening. I at first 
thought I would go and hear him preach ; again I concluded I 
would not go j that I seldom heard any preaching which was of 
benefit to me. The thought then occurred to me that on my 
birth-day I had prayed to be made sensible of the reality of re- 
ligion, and if there was any truth in it, to be convinced of it in 
the course of the year. This question was then suggested to 
my mind : What are considered the effectual means of salva- 
tion ? God maketh the reading, but more especially the preach- 
ing of his word, an effectual means of salvation. While reflect- 
ing upon this answer, the expression, ' especially the preaching 
of his word,' struck me so forcibly that my mind was made up 
in an instant to go and hear the preaching in the evening, 
which I did. While standing up during the first prayer, my 
heart was lifted up to God in prayer, that if a change of heart 
was necessary to salvation, I might be convinced of it that 
night. The sermon was from the text, ' Repent, for the king- 
dom of heaven is at hand.' During the sermon, I felt that the 
foundations of my moral system were giving away, and that I 
must repent of even my self-righteousness, which I had thought 
would carry me to heaven. When I went to bed that night, I 
felt that I was one of the worst kind of men." 

The January following, 1815, being major of cavalry, he was 
ordered with the squadron to join the troops assembling in Da- 
rien to repel a threatened attack upon the place by the English. 
The stirring scenes of military service would in all probability 
have erased from his mind the favorable impressions that had 
been made upon his heart just the month before, but God was 
17 



258 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

"watching over and guarding the good seed that had been sown 
in his heart. When one day he was about to engage in drilling 
the squadron, he was taken suddenly ill and would have fallen 
from his horse, but was prevented by his aid and a very inti- 
mate and dear friend, Captain Joseph Jones, then commanding 
the Liberty Independent Troop, who took him from his horse 
and carried him to his quarters. He continued very sick du- 
ring the stay of the troops in Darien, and he was not able to 
return home until some time after the army was disbanded 
upon the declaration of peace. The circumstance of his sudden 
attack impressed his mind deeply with the uncertainty of life 
and his entire unfitness for death. As soon as he could ride he 
returned home, more deeply impressed with the necessity of a 
change of heart and more troubled about sin than when he left 
it. He continued in a very distressed and dejected state of 
mind until the April following, when he found peace in believing 
in Jesus Christ. A few days after indulging a hope, he applied 
to the Sunbury Baptist church for membership, and being re- 
ceived for baptism, he was, on the 30th of April, 1815, baptized 
by Eev. C. O. Screven, the pastor, and became a member of the 
church. Years afterward, when reverting to this period of his 
life, I have heard him state that when he left his house to go 
to the church to relate his experience, he felt that his strength 
would fail him before he reached the nreeting-house. His feet 
seemed weighted with lead. He felt that his mind was all 
darkness, that he had nothing to say, and he wondered why he 
was going. After reaching the meeting, and he was called 
upon to relate what God had done for him, he arose and co*n- 
menced, and though at first embarrassed, yet soon light burst 
in upon his mind. His heart became filled with the love of 
God, his tongue became loosed, and he knew not when or where 
to stop. So affecting was the relation he gave of God's merci- 
ful dealings with him, that there was not, I have heard an eye 
witness state, a dry eye in the house. In the brief account he 
gives of his conversion, from which an extract has already been 
given, he thus speaks of his feelings after his conversion : "I 
feel that I have been asleep for many years and have just 
awoke — all nature is more beautiful around me, whereas all 
was gloom and despair. God has withdrawn far from me, and 



Rev. Samuel Spry Law. 259 

left me to myself because I did not desire the knowledge of his 
ways. I had thought I would build up a system of morality to 
save myself, until he convinced me that it was without any 
foundation, and he overthrew it all at once, just when I was 
consoling myself that I was getting it to be a very perfect 
structure. No man on earth could have convinced me of my 
error, and I did not attribute it to anything Mr. Flint said, or 
to his knowledge of the human heart, but that he was sent by 
God with such words in his mouth to convince me that I must 
repent of all my sins, and even of all my self-righteousness, and 
that I must build upon the chief corner-stone, Jesus Christ, 
After my conversion, I commenced the worship of God in my 
family. I had once before attempted it, but gave it up, consid- 
ering it useless, but I now regard it as one of my most import- 
ant duties and one of the greatest pleasures of life to acknowl- 
edge our sins before God, to ask for pardon, to return thanks for 
all his blessings, and to glorify his great name. Indeed, I feel 
that I might as well try to live without food and sleep as to 
live without endeavoring to glorify God." 

His connecting himself with a Baptist church was somewhat 
remarkable, as all his former prejudices were in favor of the 
pcedo-Baptists. He had been brought up in the faith of pcedo- 
baptism. His father was an Episcopalian, and all his brothers 
who had professed religion were members of a poedo-Baptist 
church. But he consulted not with flesh and flood, and taking 
his Bible for his guide, he followed what he believed to be its 
teachings. This disposition to follow not men but the word of 
God, as the only infallible rule of faith and practice, which was 
thus clearly manifested in his first step in his christian life, gov- 
erned him through the whole of it. Conscious of great spirit- 
ual ignorance, but relying upon the safety of the direction with 
the promise annexed, "If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of 
God, who giveth liberally and upbraideth not," he applied him- 
self diligently to the study of the scriptures. He asked and 
studied, and studied and asked again, and he asked and studied 
not in vain. The almost worn out leaves of his Bible are wit- 
nesses of his constant application, and there are many now 
living who can testify to the thoroughness and soundness of 
his knowledge of the fundamental doctrines of the Bible. 



2G0 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

From the records of the Sunbury Baptist church we learn 
that he was elected clerk of the church in the place of Sumner 
Winn, resigned, on the 17th of August, 1816, a little more than 
a J ear alter becoming a member. 

Having lost his second wife, he was married to Miss Temper- 
ance Wood, of Sunbury, on the 1st of December, 1818. By this 
marriage he had three children, of whom only one survives. 

May 15th, 1819, he was elected and ordained to the sacred 
office of deacon. ISTo one, perhaps, possessed more fully than 
he did the qualifications for this sacred office. He "used the 
office of a deacon well," for he did thereby "purchase to him- 
self a good degree,'* whether by this be meant an elevated sta- 
tion as a christian, or a higher post, the office of elder or 
bishop, a*nd he did, sooner than christians generally, acquire 
great boldness in the faith. In filling the office of a deacon, he 
did not limit himself to serving tables. He freely and humbly 
exercised the gifts God had given him, having an ardent desire 
to glorify God in his day and generation. The health of Mr. 
Screven being infirm, from a cancer in one of his eyes, he gave 
him much assistance in attending to the colored people of the 
church. and congregation. In the conference and social prayer 
meeting he expounded the scriptures and exhorted his brethren 
to diligence and perseverance in the divine life. His precepts 
in the religious meeting were eminently enforced by his daily 
walk. He labored diligently and perseveringly after that at- 
tainment in piety to which he exhorted his brethren. 

Having for several years exercised his gifts before the church, 
and having in the opinion of his brethren made considerable 
progress in knowledge and piety, and showing considerable 
aptness to teach, his brethren, in order to increase his useful- 
ness, urged upon him the acceptance of a license to preach, 
which he did. The first notice we have of his preaching as a 
licentiate is from a minute in the church records, dated 'No- 
vember 19th, 1825, in which it is stated that he preached the 
sermon preparatory to the Lord's Supper — we presume because 
of the indisposition of the pastor. On account of the great 
destitution of ministerial labor within the bounds of the Sun- 
bury Baptist Association— many of the churches being almost 
entirely without the ministration of the word — the church 



Rev. Samuel Spry Law, 261 

called him to go forth as an evangelist, and to this end they 
invited a presbytery, which convened in the Sunbury Baptist 
church, December 27th, 1827, who, having examined him, pro- 
ceeded to ordain him. The presbytery consisted of William B. 
Johnson, D. D., elders Wilson Conner, Jacob Dunham, James 
Shannon, and the pastor, Charles O. Screven. 

It was with particular reference to the wants of the colored 
people on the seaboard, and the poor white churches of the 
Sunbury Association, that, in obedience to the call of his breth- 
ren, the subject of this sketch consented to assume the duties 
and responsibilities of the ministry. This was the Said of his 
choice, for the desire of his heart was to do good, and in this 
field he felt he could do the most good. But the providence of 
God disappointed him in his design of confining his labors ex- 
clusively to this field. The Eev. C. 0. Screven becoming en- 
tirely disabled for preaching from the cancer in his eye, resigned 
the pastoral charge of the Sunbury Baptist church, May 16th, 
1829. The church, in her destitute situation, looked to him to 
go in and out before them, and to break unto them the bread 
of life. He was unwilling to take the oversight of them, be- 
cause, from his want of education, he felt that he was not qual- 
ified to be the religious teacher of such a congregation as then 
met in Sunbury for worship. But rather than the church should 
suffer, and there being hundreds of colored people connected 
with it who must be taken care of, he determined, in the 
strength of the Lord, to take up the cross in their service. In 
connection with this church, he also served, but not as pastor, 
the North Newport Baptist church, Liberty county. Though, 
by this arrangement, his itinerating was curtailed, still it plae< d 
him, perhaps, more fully in one part of the field of his choice — 
the colored people ; for there were a great many connected with 
the churches and congregations he now labored with. To the 
colored people of the North Newport church and congregation 
he devoted the afternoon of every Sabbath he preached in that 
church. 

In the fall of 1830, his son, J. S. Law, returned from the 
North, where he had been pursuing a course of theological 
studies. As the church could now be supplied without him, 
and still wishing to carry out his original plans, he gave up the 



2G2 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

charge of the church. The following year, receiving a call from 
the North Newport church to become its pastor, he accepted 
the call, as this would not interfere with his plans, but further 
them, and took a letter of dismission from the Sunbury church 
to the former. About this time the Kev. C. C. Jones commenced 
his labors among the colored people in Liberty county, and he 
found in him a warm, zealous and efficient supporter and fellow- 
laborer. Oh, how his heart leaped for joy when he first wit- 
nessed the performances of the colored children in the Sabbath- 
school, under the instruction of Mr. Jones. He rejoiced, for in 
this system of instruction he saw the prospect of materially 
and permanently improving the moral character of our colored 
population. 

Three or four years before his death, he gave up the charge 
of the North Newport church and gave his whole time to 
preaching to the poor white churches in the back parts of Lib- 
erty county, and in some of the adjoining counties, and also to 
the colored people. 

We come now to the closing days of his life, which "were, 
indeed, dark, painful, distressing in the extreme." 

From his strong frame, robust constitution, almost uninter- 
rupted health and his habit of life, one would have judged that 
he certainly would have lived out the full measure of the days 
allotted to man in this life. But, without any previous sick- 
ness, his health, without any apparent cause, began suddenly 
to decline in the summer of 1836. The best medical advice was 
obtained upon the first indications of disease, but it was of no 
avail, for he continued gradually to waste away, in flesh and 
strength. ITe suffered no pain, but experienced a most unpleas- 
ant and indescribable sensation in his left side, which he more 
than once said he would cheerfully exchange for acute pain. 
He was not confined to his bed nor to the house during the first 
part of his sickness. His appetite was good, and he experi- 
enced no inconvenience from eating whatever he relished. Ev- 
ery remedy tried by his physicians failed, and they were at a 
loss to know what was the true nature or precise location of 
his disease. To one of his physicians, who was speaking to him 
of the novelty and hidden nature of his complaint, he calmly 
replied, " God has a way to take every man out of the world, 



Rev. Samuel Spry Law, 263 

and the disease from which I am suffering is the way in which 
I am to go." He seemed fully impressed from the first of the 
attack that he should not recover. He arranged all his worldly 
matters in the first stage of his sickness, and then dismissed 
them from his mind as things with which he had no more to 
do. He often spoke of his approaching dissolution, and he 
truly spoke of it as one who was strong in the Lord. No doubt 
overshadowed his faith— no fear disturbed his hope. His soul 
rested with unshaken confidence in the merits of Christ for ac- 
ceptance with G-od. He was usually cheerful, yet it was the 
cheerfulness of the christian chastened to a temper becoming 
one who felt that the time of his departure was at hand. Such 
being the uniform tenor of his mind during the summer and 
fall, how great was ray astonishment when, on the 9th of Jan- 
uary, 1837, at four o'clock in the morning, he had me called to 
him.* When I came to his bedside, he told me, with the deep- 
est distress, that he had been deceiving himself; that he had 
never known Christ. He expressed himself in such a manner 
as induced me to ask him if he had been living in any secret 
sin. He exclaimed, "God forbid! I have never sinned know- 
ingly and intentionally against God since I professed the name 
of Jesus. But," said he, " I am lost, I shall be damned." I was 
so perfectly astounded I knew not what to say. After a little 
pause, he again exclaimed, " But God will be glorified ! " I 
asked him if the thought that God would be glorified in his de- 
struction gave him any satisfaction ? He replied, " Yes, the 
glory of God is all I desire, whether it be in my salvation or in 
my condemnation — if He be glorified, I am satisfied." I re- 
marked to him that an unregenerate man could not feel so. He 
answered, " My mind is much enlightened, but my heart is des- 
titute of holiness." Finding it useless to argue the point with 
him, I turned the conversation so as to lead him to express him- 
self upon the great love of Christ, his favorite theme. It had 
the desired effect ; he was soon melted into tears, and after a 
few moments, became composed in his mind. 

The next day, Tuesday, he was still more gloomy than at anj T 
former period. He said he was without hope and without God. 
I told him his feelings were the result of his disease. He re- 

*Rev. Josiah S. Law. 



264 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

plied, "Do not deceive yourself; I am a moDument of .God's 
Vengeance, and he will make me an example to all others." I 
took him to ride and tried in every way to divert his mind, but 
it was useless — dark melancholy seemed settled immovably on 
his mind. For the first time I feared he was becoming insane. 
He had not yet been confined to bed. Though I hoped and 
prayed God would save his servant from such a terrible afflic- 
tion as the loss of his reason, yet he saw fit to order otherwise. 
On Friday morning the seal of insanity was fixed, blotting out 
all hope, and overshadowing the whole family with the deepest 
gloom. On that terrible morning he became angr} r with me 
for praying for him during family worship. He had not risen 
from his bed. He called me to his bedside, and in the most pre- 
emptory manner commanded me never to pray for him again. 
He refused his food, and gave such evidence of entire insanity 
that from that day until I closed his eyes in death I never left 
him. To the inquiries of his friends who came to see him re- 
specting his health, he had but one answer, " Lost, lost for- 
ever !" His physician now blistered him extensively, which 
confined him to his bed, and which he never left until carried 
to the place appointed for all living. For whole nights would 
he lie without closing his eyes, grinding his teeth and speaking 
la the most terrific language of the destruction that was coming 
upon him. Sometimes he would rouse up from his slumbers at 
night and inquire, " Is it time or eternity?" Upon being an- 
swered that it was still time, he would in the most thrilling 
manner exclaim, "Eternity! oh, eternity, eternity !" During 
his derangement, which lasted until a few hours before his 
death, he had two lucid intervals. Of one of them, the last be- 
fore the day of his death, being the clearest and longest, though 
only lasting three hours, and the most satisfactory, I shall give 
a minute account of it : On Wednesday morning, 1st of Feb- 
ruary, his paroxysm of insanity was unusually violent and he 
was entirely unmanageable. He would not allow me to do any- 
thing for him, not even to approach his bed. About midday I 
heard him say, as though speaking to himself, " I cannot give 
up Christ." He then beckoned me to him. On going to him, 
he asked me if I thought he would ever give up Christ ? I re- 
plied, " No, I am satisfied that you cannot." He then said, "I 



Rev. Samuel Spry Law, 265 

shall never give him up." He asked me to pray for him, which 
I did. I regarded this request as a good indication of returning 
reason, for it was the first time he had made such a request 
since the morning he angrily commanded me not to do it. 
After prayer I recited several passages of scripture to him, 
with which he seemed much pleased. Upon repeating the 
verse " I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not 
worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed 
in us," he exclaimed, " Glorious truth ! delightful truth !" I 
also repeated, " "We are saved by grace, through faith, and that 
not of ourselves, it is the gift of God." He remarked, " Grace, 
grace, and only grace." I repeated many more suitable to his 
condition, which seemed to fill him with delight, and, what was 
a little remarkable, of every verse I quoted he would immedi- 
ately tell me in what gospel or epistle and chapter it was, and 
its number. Whilst engaged in this exercise I placed my fin- 
gers upon his pulse and found it so feeble I thought he was 
sinking. Upon doing this he remarked to me, " I am almost 
gone." I asked him if his head had not been very much con- 
fused ? He replied, "Yes, but it is much clearer now." As 
soon as I was satisfied that he was himself, I called the family 
and told them his reason had returned, but I thought he was 
sinking fast. He recognized the different members of the 
family. About this time a very dear and intimate friend of his 
came to the house, and I asked him if he wished to see him ? 
He said " Yes." Upon his coming into the room he grasped 
his hand and thus spoke to him, " Have you come to see me? 
Have you any hope ? What is your hope ? Oh, I beg you as 
a dying man not to put off repentance another day. You see 
what a poor, wretched creature I should be if I had put off re- 
pentance to a dying bed." As soon as the brethren in Sunbury 
heard of his situation they came to see him. He addressed 
them all affectionately by name and told them he was going 
home. Eut his hour had not yet come. He had not yet drunk 
to the full of the cup his heavenly father had given him to 
drink. As soon as his fever returned, he lost himself and be- 
came as entirely deranged as ever. His sufferings increased as 
he drew near his end. On Saturday, the 4th, he was again 
more lucid in his mind, but it was very apparent that he was 



266 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

failing fast. About two o'clock in the afternoon he suffered 
the most excruciating pains. He would entreat us not to keep 
him, he was anxious to depart, for he felt that he rested upon 
the "Kock of Ages" and had no cause of fear. From the last 
mentioned hour until eleven o'clock at night, when he closed 
his eyes in death, he had scarcely a moment's ease. During 
these hours of increased and increasing pain we were continu- 
ally shifting his position, but he found no ease until death came. 
Precisely at eleven o'clock p. m., 4th of February, 1837, 1 closed 
his eyes, and thus closed a scene of suffering and affliction which, 
thank God, is seldom felt or witnessed. During the above scene 
I heard him indistinctly articulate, "Acts 7th," had not time 
then to look for the passage, and in the wretched state of my 
mind I could not think of any verse in the chapter suited to his 
case, but it was evidently the fifty-ninth verse, "Lord Jesus, 
receive my spirit." 

He was indeed baptized in sufferings, that he might, no 
doubt, rise to that far more exceeding and eternal weight of 
glory. Oh, how sweet must have been his entrance into rest ! 
How gloriously great his transition from a world of suffering 
to a heaven of unspeakable bliss ! 

It is not flattery, nor is it saying too much to state that few, 
if any, ever made more rapid progress in piety, and in the 
knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Neither is it said to his 
praise, but to the magnifying of that grace which made him 
what he was. Eeligion was not with him a mere profession, 
neither was he governed by mere impulse in the discharge of 
its duties, but it was fixed in his heart as a living, abiding and 
sanctifying principle, impressing itself upon his character in 
every relation of life. In the very beginning of his christian 
life, he made holiness of heart the chief aim, and the service of 
God the great business of life ; and to these two objects he de- 
voted time, talents and property. In the very outset, long be- 
fore he entered upon the ministry, he gave much of his time to 
prayer and the study of the scriptures. When business called 
him away from his study, he carried with him his pocket tes- 
tament, that he might employ his leisure moments in reading 
and meditating upon divine truth. He " searched the scriptures 



Rev. Samuel Spry Law. 267 

daily." He was in the habit of rising early in the morning and 
spending the time before the hour of family worship arrived in 
devotional exercises. To this may be attributed the fervor and 
spirituality with which he conducted this delightful exercise. 
He was ever careful to suffer nothing, aside from the providence 
of God, to interfere with worship in his family, morning and 
evening. His domestic altar was held most sacred, and upon it 
he seemed ever anxious to lay his best sacrifice. In conducting 
worship in his family, his custom was to accompany the portion 
of scripture read with some practical remarks, suited to the 
wants and understandings of his family. He was, indeed, the 
christian in his house, seeking, by precept and example, to lead 
his children and servants to Christ. In the church he seemed 
to haue but one end in view — the honor and glory of Christ. 
To his brethren he was kind, affectionate and faithful, sympa- 
thizing with them in their afflictions, warning them when care- 
less, and reproving them when they offended. He regarded it 
as a high privilege, as well as sacred duty, to aid his pastor in 
every way he could in advancing the cause of Christ. In his 
intercourse with men of the world, he never lost sight of his 
calling as a christian, nor of their condition as sinners against 
God. Hence, he never lost an opportunity of speaking a word 
for God. So common was it with him to change conversation 
from worldly topics to those of a religious nature, that it was 
often said by his worldly acquaintances, "No matter what you 
talk about to Mr. Law, he will find something in it upon which 
to change the conversation to the subject of your soul's salva- 
tion." 

He attained unto great spirituality of mind, and if it be true 
that " out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh," 
then was his heart full of the love of Christ, the holiness of 
God, and the blessings of salvation, for these subjects formed 
the burden of his conversation. He was a most scrupulous ob- 
server of the Sabbath ; he " remembered the Sabbath day to 
keep it holy." By Saturday evening sunset, all his worldly 
business was closed up and laid aside, and he commenced the 
preparation of his heart and mind for the duties of the ap- 
proaching Sabbath. So thoroughly was his mind trained to 
communion with divine things on this holy day that, on one 



268 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

occasion, after he entered the ministry, he was threatened with 
great pecuniary loss, from the failure of a friend for whom he 
had indorsed, which cost him much trouble and anxiety for 
weeks before he got through with it; and, though he was har- 
rassed and worried during the week, yet he told me afterwards 
that when the Sabbath came his mind' was as perfectly calm 
and free from all disturbances of a worldly nature as it would 
have been had no difficulties existed. He spoke of it as a man- 
ifestation of God's goodness to him. 

During his christian course, he was called to pass through 
some dark and severe scenes of affliction. Ey the bedside of 
an affectionate wife and five children has he been seen to stand, 
at different times, in all the calm serenity of submission to the 
will of God, and placing his hand upon their eyes closing in 
death, express the resignation of his soul in the solemn words 
of inspiration, " The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; 
blessed be the name of the Lord." His confidence in God seemed 
never shaken. The chastisements of his heavenly Father taught 
him not to love the world, nor the things of the world, and 
clothed him with humility as with a garment. Such was his 
resignation under these afflictions that an intimate friend of 
his — a man of the world— upon one occasion of severe bereave- 
ment, remarked that his religion had destroyed his natural sen- 
sibilities. But could that friend have witnessed the deep strug- 
gle, the bitter conflict between natural affection and the duty 
of submission to the will of God, he would have been constrained 
to acknowledge that the affections of the heart had not been 
impaired, but subdued to the recognition of a higher relation, 
for a more affectionate husband and father never lived. He was 
a christian of the kindest and most benevolent feelings. During 
seasons of severe sickness in Sunbury he was found day and 
night by the side of the sick and dying, administering to soul 
and body. 

As a christian master, he felt deeply the responsibilities of 
his station. Frequently, upon visiting his plantation, he would 
call his servants off from their work and assemble them- for re- 
ligious instruction. He often talked to them privately and per- 
sonally respecting their soul's salvation. He treated those of 
his servants who professed religion as fellow-christians. He 



Rev. Samuel Spry Law. 269 

never punished them for misconduct before laying their case 
before the church. He was an active and liberal supporter of 
all the benevolent institutions of the day. He conscientiously 
gave according as the Lord had prospered him, and if the loss 
of a crop rendered stricter economy necessary, he economized 
in his family, and not in his contributions to the Lord. He 
lived as one who was not his own, but bought with a price, 
even with the precious blood of Christ, 

As a preacher, it was not to be expected, inasmuch as he 
never received an education, was altogether unaccustomed to 
study, and did not enter the ministry until late in life, that he 
would have become what is usually termed a great preacher; 
but, under all disadvantages, it may, in strict truth, be said, he 
did become a good preacher, able to divide the word of truth 
aright, and to give each his portion in due season. If to preach 
the word, be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, 
exhort, with all long suffering and doctrine, constitute a good 
minister of Jesus Christ, then was he one. 

His sermons were prepared with much care and study, in do- 
ing which he used no other help than a Bible, with Scott's ref- 
erences. It was in this way he studied the scriptures almost 
exclusively, interpreting scripture by scripture. His sermons 
were sound and practical, generally well arranged, and often 
exhibiting deep thought and much patient study. Upon the 
great doctrine of "justification by faith" he dwelt much, and 
upon this subject he preached with great power. In preaching 
upon all the fundamental doctrines of the gospel, he was free 
from all speculation, and from everything like an attempt to be 
wise above what is written. He was content to give a plain, 
scriptural view of his subject and enforce the obvious duties it 
imposed on men. In preaching, he showed great familiarity 
with the scriptures, quoting freely and accurately from them, 
and giving chapter and verse from memory. In his delivery he 
was fluent, rapid and animated, always throwing his whole soul 
into the application of his discourses. He was much gifted in 
prayer. In witnessing his pulpit performances, one could not 
but feel that he was listening to a man who spake as though 
standing in the presence of the Great Head of the church. He 
preached the gospel without charge to the churches, but with 



270 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

cost to himself; for, though he had a large family to provide 
for and educate, a small property to do it with, and somewhat 
in debt, making the most rigid economy necessary in order to 
get along, yet he paid another to attend to his business, that 
he might give himself wholly to the work of the ministry. He 
trusted in the Lord, for in the Lord Jehovah he knew was ever- 
lasting strength. 

AUGUSTUS 0. BACON. 

Augustus O. Bacon, the son of Thomas and Sarah H. Bacon, 
and grandson of the late Bev. Dr. Holcombe, was born in Lib- 
erty county, Ga., on the 17th January, 1816. His parents were 
both members of the Baptist church. They studiously and 
prayerfully endeavored to imbue the mind of their son with 
the great principles of Christianity, and to impress upon his 
heart and conscience the inestimable value and importance of 
an early dedication of himself to the service of Christ. Nor 
did they, while thus training him up for heaven, neglect the 
discipline and cultivation of his mental faculties. He was sent 
at an early age to the best school the neighborhood could af- 
ford, which was at Walthourville. Here he was regularly pre- 
pared for college. As to his early history, it will be necessary 
to say but little. From his childhood, his conduct was unex- 
ceptionable — he was famed for his truth and integrity, and was 
singled out as a worthy example for those of his own age. He 
strove to ascertain the path of duty, and when once ascertain- 
ed, pursued it with undeviating firmness. He was never known 
to do deliberately what he conscientiously believed to be wrong. 
Such is the character given him by those who were acquainted 
with his early days. The seed of divine truth, which was 
faithfully and prayerfully sown in his heart at an early period, 
took root, sprung up and brought forth fruit to the honor and 
glory of God at the age of thirteen. Soon after his conversion, he 
united, himself to the North Newport Baptist church, and con- 
tinued up to the time of his leaving to connect himself with 
college, a consistent and exemplary follower of the Lord Jesus. 
He entered the Sophomore class, half advanced, of the Uni- 
versity of Georgia, at Athens, m January, 1834. While in col- 



Augustus 0. Bacon. 271 

lege, his influence was both extensive and salutary. He pos- 
sessed a sound practical mind, fitted not so much for show as 
for usefulness, united with great moral worth. By the dignity 
of his mien, the firmness of his integrity, and the manliness of 
his piety, he won for himself the esteem of the faculty, and 
the friendship of the students. His consistency of character 
and amiable deportment rendered him a favorite in the literary 
society in the University and among the citizens of the town. 
The whole of his influence was exerted in the cause of virtue 
and religion. And whatever plan was proposed, calculated to 
elevate the moral character of the college and the students, 
met with his warm approbation and cordial support. Had he 
continued his connection with the college, he would have taken 
his first degree in August, 1836. But private business, of a 
pressing nature, called him away a short time previous. In a 
letter to him, Dr. Church, the president of the institution, re- 
marks, "We all regretted your leaving before commencement, 
knowing that, for your scholarship, you would have been enti- 
tled to one of the first honors, and that the commencement 
exercises would have been most creditably sustained, so far as 
you were concerned, had you taken your part in them." Soon 
after leaving college, he was married to Miss Louisa Jones, of 
Liberty county, a lady whose excellency of character, and amia- 
ble disposition, and devoted piety, eminently qualified her to 
be an help meet for the faithful minister of the Cross. In Octo- 
ber, 1836, he became a member of the Theological Seminary, 
in Columbia, South Carolina, with a view of preparing himself 
for the ministry of reconciliation. Here, as elsewhere, his 
suavity of manners, his exemplary conduct, and his ardent 
piety, gained him the love and the christian affection of both 
his instructors and his brethren. Here, as elsewhere, in all his 
intercourse with the members of the seminary and with the 
citizens of Columbia, he was the same high-minded and honor- 
able man, and the same consistent christian. 

A few extracts from letters, written to his friends during his 
stay in the seminary, will more correctly and faithfully display 
his religious feelings than any remarks from another pen. In 
.a letter, dated 17th January, 1838, we have the following re- 
flections, suggested by the return of his birth day: "Twenty- 



272 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

two years of my short life have gone, and what account havo 
they borne with them! Alas! it seems like a blank. I cannot 
see what I have lived for. When the slight efforts to do good 
are brought into contrast with my slothfulness and unfaithful- 
nsss, the former dwindle into insignificance. And then, when 
the sins which have accompanied my best performances are 
taken into consideration, does it not become me to acknowledge 
myself guilty ? Where could we sinners hide our heads, if it 
were not for the atoning blood of our Saviour ? Here is our 
only hope; let us cling to this." 

In another letter, dated January 21st, 1838, his views respect- 
ing the sacred ministry and the preparation necessary for the 
faithful and efficient discharge of its duties are thus set forth : 

"I begin to feel that my course of preparation for the minis- 
try is rapidly drawing to a close. The field is before me, and I 
am not fit to enter it. You are aware, perhaps, that it is my 
intention, as far as I can see into the future, to leave the sem- 
inary and commence preaching in July. This now seems to 
me to be the path of duty. But, as I have already said, I am 
not prepared for the work. My knowledge and mental disci- 
pline are by no means sufficient, and what is more than all, I 
am very far from having the right spirit for a minister of the 
gospel. I am too much inclined to lukewarmness and indiffer- 
ence. My concern for the spiritual welfare of my fellow- 
creatures, and particularly of my own friends and relatives, 
hr.s never been what it should have been. Unless this concern 
is increased, how can I be honored as an instrument of saving 
souls ?" 

After thus having spoken of his unworthiness to assume the 
ministerial functions, he goes on and beautifully expresses his 
firm, unwavering confidence in the providence of God : 

" On one point I have reason to thank God that my feelings 
are more in accordance with his word than they have ever 
been before ; and this is, that I do not feel that anxiety in 
which we are apt to indulge about what is to be my lot in this 
world and what I shall be called to suffer or perform. It is de- 
lightful to leave all these things in the hands of our heavenly 
father. If he has any work for me to do, he will open the door, 
before me and direct me in the path of duty. He knows 



Augustus 0. Bacon, 273 

whether poverty and hardship will be most for my good, and 
amidst all the changes and troubles of this world, he will not 
disregard those whom he loves. No man's mere external cir- 
cumstances can make him happy. It is the state of the mind. 
I find in my own experience that nothing gives so much calm- 
ness and contentment of mind as to cultivate the habit of trust- 
ing in God for everything. Duty belongs to us. Let us leave 
results with God." 

Once more we quote from a letter : "I find great difficulty 
in attending to worldly business on one account. It is so hard 
to avoid setting our affections on these things. "What awful 
sinners we are ! Were it not for the promise that none of Christ's 
sheep will be lost, then there would indeed be reason for dis- 
couragement, but here is our hope. He who conducted us thus 
far has promised never to leave us nor forsake us. Let us live 
by faith, casting all our care upon Him who is mighty to 
help." 

After remaining here for two full sessions, he applied for a 
dismission on June 16th, 1838, which was granted by the pro- 
fessors and couched in the following language : " He has dili- 
gently attended the prescribed course of study, maintained a 
consistent christian character, conformed to all the regulations 
of the institution, and is now dismissed at his own particular 
request. He carries with him the confidence, the esteem and 
the sincere affection of each one of us." 

In July, 1838, he was licensed to preach the gospel of Christ, 
and soon after was invited by the North Newport Baptist 
church and the -Sunbury Baptist church to become an associate 
pastor with the Rev. J. S. Law. The invitation was accepted, 
and as a preparatory step to his assuming all the duties of the 
pastoral relation, he was ordained on the 13th of January, 1839. 

He labored but a few months here in the active and faithful 
discharge of his ministerial functions, before he was attacked 
by the fever. His last sermon to his beloved flock was preached 
while he was suffering from that disease which in a few days 
terminated his valuable life. In his last illness he endured 
much physical pain, but having a conscience void of offence, 
both toward God and toward man, he was not only patient and 
resigned, but even cheerful. Calm and tranquil, the language 
18 



274 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

of his soul seemed to be and doubtless was, " Not my will, but 
thine, be done, O Lord." To his brothers and sister, who clung 
around the bedside of their beloved brother, he gave solemn 
warnings and exhortations upon the important subject of per- 
sonal religion. Being asked how that Saviour whom he was 
recommending to others appeared to himself, he replied, " There 
is none like him, none like him." 

These were bis last words in regard to his own personal 
state, and are amply sufficient to show with what feeling and 
with what hope he entered upon the untried scenes of eternity. 
He breathed his last on the 3d of July, 1839, and was buried 
the next day at Midway burying ground. 

Thus died one who had endeared himself in all the relations 
of life, and is embalmed in the memories of all who knew him. 
He had but a few months before completed a course of study 
to prepare himself for the arduous and responsible duties of the 
pastor and make himself an able and efficient minister of the 
new covenant. But he was only permitted to look around 
upon the field of labor allotted him by Divine Providence, to 
commence his duties, and then to die in the midst of all his 
hopes and all his plans. How unsearchable are the judgments 
of God, and his ways past finding out! Hon. A. O. Bacon, 
Speaker of the House in the Georgia Legislature, is his only 
living child. 

JAMES AEMSTBONG 

Was a native of New York, and was born in Hempstead, 
March 20, 1776, and was educated a Presbyterian. Of that 
church he was a ruling elder in the city of Savannah. He was 
also clerk in a large counting-house in that city, in which sit- 
uation he acquired the reputation of an excellent accountant as 
well as a man of probity. Being convinced of the error of in- 
fant sprinkling, he joined the Baptist church in Savannah in 
1810. He was licensed and ordained by Fishing Creek church, 
Wilkes county, about 1814, and was a useful and influential 
minister for more than twenty years. As a citizen, as well as 
a minister, he was regarded with respect by all classes, and his 
advice was sought on all subjects of interest. As a member of 
.the mission board of the Georgia Association, of the Conven- 



Wilson Conner, 275 

tion, and of all the benevolent institutions, he was active and 
always punctual. He was treasurer of the Convention from 
1833 to 1835, the year of his death. 

As a preacher he was plain and affectionate. The amiable- 
ness of his character as a man riveted many an ear which 
would have been inattentive had there not been about the 
speaker so much of excellence and sound practical sense. His 
widow has removed to Alabama, and resides with one of her 
sons near Montgomery. 

The name of Armstrong is pleasant to many ears in Middle 
Georgia, where he was extensively known and much beloved. 
As the pastor of Fishing Creek, Greenwood and Lincolnton 
churches, he was highly esteemed. 

For a more extended notice of this worthy man, see Mercer's 
" History of the Georgia Association." 

WILSON CONNER 

"Was born in Marlborough district, South Carolina, July 7th, 
1768, and at about twenty-one years of age engaged in the min- 
istry among the Methodists. About 1773, having become dis- 
satisfied with the doctrine and discipline of that society, he was 
baptized at Oheraw, South Carolina, by Joshua Lewis, and was 
ordained as a Baptist minister in Effingham county, Georgia, in 
1803, by Revs. Messrs. Peacock, Brewer and Cook. The next 
year he was excluded from the Great Ogeechee church, and re- 
mained in a backslidden state for several years. He was for 
eighteen years Justice of the Inferior Court in Montgomery 
county. He was likewise a member of the Legislature from 
the same county. He was at length turned from his backslid- 
ings, in the exercise of hearty repentance, and was restored to 
the church and the ministry. In his latter days his ministry 
was signally blessed. Many souls were added unto the Lord 
through his instrumentality. He was a warm and successful 
advocate of the temperance cause and of all similar institutions. 
He was principally occupied in itinerant service, to Which he 
was much devoted. It may be said in truth that the entire 
State was his mission-field. In thirteen years he traveled over 
thirty-five thousand miles. For a time he acted as domestic 



276 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

missionary, under the patronage of the Georgia Baptist Con- 
vention, and then as an agent of the Board of Trustees of 

Mercer University. 

His person was commanding — frame large, though neither 
tall nor corpulent, dark complexion, with black eyes, deeply 
set. His voice was extraordinary, resembling more the rum- 
bling of distant thunder than anything else. Those who ever 
heard him never forgot its sound. He appeared to take great 
pleasure in preaching, and was frequently heard to express the 
desire " that the last act of his life might be to preach the gos- 
pel and then be permitted to die in the pulpit." His wish in 
this respect was singularly fulfilled, for in the summer of 1844, 
having preached with great liberty and power in Telfair county 
from the words, "Yerily, I say unto you the hour is coming, 
and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of 
God, and they that hear shall live," he sat down and expired 
instantly, without the least struggle. He was then about 
seventy-six years old, and had been on the walls of Zion near 
fifty years. His descendants are quite numerous and very re- 
spectable. 

THOMAS SUMNEK WINN, 

A son of Deacon Peter "Winn, of Liberty county, Georgia, 
was born July 16th, 1792. His parents had been members of 
the Presbyterian church at Medway, but in seeking for the 
proofs of infant sprinkling, they were unable to find them in 
the Bible. Thomas was usher to Dr. McWhir in Sunbury 
Academy, in his seventeenth year. A letter addressed to him 
by his mother, and left .on his table, was the means of his 
awakening. In 1813, he entered Hampden Sydney College, 
"Virginia, but did not continue long in that institution. While 
attending an academy in Warren county, North Carolina, he 
was baptized and soon returned home, was ordained pastor of 
North Newport church, Liberty county, and preached with 
great acceptance throughout all the low country. He seemed 
to be conscious that his race would be short, for all his powers 
were devoted to the great work with untiring energy and 
flaming zeal. Perhaps few men have done so much good in so 
little time • and few, very vew, have been so ripe for heaven at 



John Ross, Jr. 277 

so early a period of life. He was a young man of great prom- 
ise, and that was a most mysterious providence that took him 
from the field of his labors. He died January 27th, 1819, about 
twenty-seven years old. As Professor Ripley, of Newton Theo- 
logical Seminary, (Mr. Winn's successor in the pastoral office,) 
has written a more extended biography of him, the. reader is 
referred to that work as one of much interest. 



JOHN EOSS, Jr., 

"Was born in Virginia, about 1781. His father emigrated to 
Georgia in 1798, and settled in Columbia county, where he died 
in 1805. The subject of this notice moved into the new purchase, 
between the Oconee and Ocmulgee, in the early settlement of 
the country, say 1807. 

His preaching talents were of a very respectable order, and 
he began to exercise them about 1816. For some years he was 
moderator of the Ebenezer Association, and after 1830, when 
he removed into the bounds of the Columbus Association, he 
was the presiding officer of that body till his death, in July, 
18o7. He was a man naturally of a very popular turn, beloved 
and confided in by all who knew him. As a preacher, he ac- 
complished more by his persuasive and impassioned manner 
than by the strength of his arguments. On account of his 
great popularity, he was induced to run for the Legislature in 
about 1828, but he w T as defeated, much to the satisfaction of his 
more prudent brethren. The occasions are believed to be of 
very rare occurrence when ministers of the gospel are warran- 
ted in coming down from their high and holy station to mingle 
in the strifes of party, or even to give direction to the affairs of 
State. As men, it is their privilege and duty to stand in their 
place at the ballot-box. This they may do without compromit- 
ting the dignity of their office, or neglecting its duties. Christ 
has said, "My kingdom is not of this world." 

In 1825, he was messenger from the Ebenezer Missionary So- 
ciety to the General Baptist Association, at Eaton ton.' Though 
ho resided among brethren who did not favor the benevolent 
operations of the age, he was their firm friend and supporter. 
He was more zealous in their behalf in the latter part of his 



278 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

life. On this subject his influence was commanding in the Col- 
umbus Association, where he spent his latter days. His resi- 
dence was in Upson, but his membership at Antioch, in Talbot, 
across the river. When the Convention was at Talbotton, in 
183G, he entered warmly into the measure of that body to es- 
tablish a Baptist college in the State. In the ministers' meet- 
ing at Forsyth, in July following, he was deej)ly interested in 
all its objects, and instrumental in accomplishing much good. 
He had gone into Marion county in July, 1837, to attend a 
meeting, when he was attacked with disease, and survived but 
a few days. 

LOVELESS SAVAGE. 

Loveless Savage was brought up an Episcopalian, and had 
removed from Welch Neck, on the Peedee, when he came to 
Georgia. Mr. Botsford, on a tour of preaching, in 1772, up the 
Kiokee, made inquiry of him in regard to his place of preach- 
ing, and after being informed, asked him, " Have you been bap- 
tized?" "Yes, to be sure," was Mr. Savage's answer. "How 
do you know ? " inquired Mr. Botsford. " Why, my parents 
have told me so." " Then you know only by information." 
This interrogation of Mr. Botsford, " How do you know ? " haun- 
ted him till he became convinced of his duty.* 

He was afterwards baptized by Mr. Marshall, and became a 
useful preacher, and was probably instrumental in gathering 
Abilene church; was a preacher as early as 1775. His last ser- 
mon was to a dying widow, whom he visited, and to whom he 
spake from these words, "Leave thy fatherless children," etc. 
His residence was near Quaker Springs, Columbia county, some 
ten miles northwest of Augusta. He died about 1815, near 
ninety years old. 

ELIJAH MOSELY, 

Was brought up as a preacher under William Davis, in Holly 
Springs church, Elbert county, where he was licensed. He was 
ordained September 5, 1807. In 1808, he joined Crooked Creek 
church, Putnam county, and was moderator of the Ocmulgee 

*See Benedict and Botsford's life. - 



Elijah Mosely. 279 

Association many years. In 1817, he accompanied Mr. Mercer 
to Philadelphia as a delegate from the Ocmulgee Missionary 
Society (of which he was president,) to the Triennial Baptist 
Convention of the United States, and heartily approved the 
measures adopted for a theological school. He was a preacher 
of great power. His opportunities for education in early life 
had been slender, but he had a strong native mind and an insa- 
tiable thirst for knowledge as he advanced in his ministerial 
career } because he discovered his need. Such men will gather 
up a valuable fund of information, whether they ever see a col- 
lege or not. Such, too, derive great advantage from the labors 
and works of their more learned brethren. 

During the last war with England, say about 1813, he volun- 
teered his services (whether as a chaplain or private soldier, 
the author is not informed,) in the army against the Creek In- 
dians. He sustained a high reputation among the soldiers, to 
whom he frequently preached, and to whom he was greatly use- 
ful. Some may think he did even more than his duty, for, when 
the conflict came, he was in the thickest of the fight, and was 
wounded in defense of his country. About 1820, he removed 
to Alabama, and survived but a short time. 

A son of his, Rev. William Mosely, is a preacher in the Tow- 
alagi Primitive Association — a man of reputable talents, but 
opposed to the institutions of the day. He is a man of logical 
mind, a natural orator, and is greatly admired and beloved b}^ 
his friends. In 1840, during the presidential campaign, he felt 
it his duty to speak and to write on the affairs of the country, 
and his efforts were believed by many to have exerted a pow- 
erful influence in favor of "Whig principles. In 1846, he ran for 
Congress against a distinguished opponent, but was beaten by 
a small majority. It is hoped he may yet see it his duty to 
adopt the views of his venerated father on the subject of benev- 
olence, and employ his talents (which are of no mean order,) in 
building up where he has been wont to pull down. 



280 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

HON. AND KEY. JOSEPH CLAY. 

The author has been at much trouble in endeavoring to ob- 
tain such an account of this great and good man, as he would 
feel warranted in placing before the public, and as would occu- 
py a conspicuous place in this work. Most of those to whom 
he has applied have failed to come to his assistance. He would 
mention with gratitude, as an exception to this remark, Hon- 
orable John M. Berrien, to whom he is mainly indebted for the 
following brief, but deeply interesting, account. 

Mr. Clay was a native Georgian, and was born in the city of 
Savannah, August 16, 1764. Mr. Berrien says, "I knew him 
well — he was the friend of my father, and my legal precej)tor. 
At his own request, I lived in his family in the country, while 
engaged in the prosecution of my law studies, and had, there- 
fore, an opportunity of knowing and appreciating his many 
virtues. He was descended from one of the oldest and most 
respectable families in our State, and was himself possessed of 
talents of the highest order. He was liberally educated, and 
received the first honor in the class of which he was a mem- 
ber, at the college of Princeton, where he graduated. When 
many years afterwards, (Mr. Berrien continues,) I became a 
student of that institution and a member of the Diosophic So- 
ciety, with which he had also been associated, his name was 
still cherished with affectionate regard, and the records of the 
society bore testimony to the estimation in which he had been 
held, while at Princeton. Beturning to Georgia, he entered 
upon the study of the law, and having been admitted to the 
bar, soon rose to the highest eminence in his profession. He 
was particularly distinguished as an advocate, and especially 
in criminal cases. I remember even at this distance of time, 
and with as vivid a recollection as if it were an occurrence of 
yesterday, the effect produced by a speech of his, in a case of 
this description. It is the only instance in my life, in which I 
have seen, in its whole extent and Resistless influence, the power 
of eloquence. So far as my observation extended, there was not 
a single individual in a crowded auditory, who could command 
his feelings. At the commencement of the trial, the popular 
feeling was strongly excited against the accused, but an instant 



Hon. and Rev. Joseph Clay. 281 

acquittal was the result ; and when the trial was ended, men 
wondered at the means by which such result had been accom- 
plished. 

"Mr. Clay was a leading member of the Convention which 
formed the present Constitution of Georgia. The original 
draught was carefully prepared by him in his retirement, but 
the Convention met in times of high party excitement, from 
the then recent controversy about the sale of our western 
lands, commonly denominated the Yazoo lands, and the plan of 
government submitted by Mr. Clay received various modifica- 
tions, which diminished its value. 

" Mr. Clay was called from his retirement, (in what precise 
year I do not recollect,) to fill the office of District Judge of the 
United States for the District of Georgia, and presided in that 
Court for several years, with distinguished ability and with 
universal approbation. But he was destined, in the providence 
of God, to a higher sphere of action. Mr. Clay had always been 
a moral man. His disposition was peculiarly amiable, and he 
was distinguished by a warm and active benevolence. These, 
combined with his social qualities, made him an object of uni- 
versal affection and respect in the community in which he lived. 
If any one of that community had been requested to point to a 
man of blameless conduct, he would have been designated. He 
alone did not concur in this judgment. 'While he was yet 
actively engaged in his judicial duties, the subject of religion 
presented itself to his mind and- engrossed his thoughts. He 
became deeply impressed with a sense of his own unworthi- 
ness, and was happily enabled to seek and to find relief in the 
atoning blood of the Eedeemer. He labored, for a considerable 
time, under great mental depression; but when at length he 
was enabled to discern the path of duty, he did not hesitate to 
pursue it. He resigned his judicial office and devoted himself 
to the ministry, with a persuasive eloquence, but yet more 
with a sincere and humble but ardent piety, which was, I trust, 
by the blessing of God, efficient in the salvation of many souls. 
In concluding this hurried and very imperfect sketch, I can 
only add, that among those with whom it has been my fortune 
to be associated in life, he stands pre-eminently distinguished 
for his talents, his virtues and his piety; and that his affection. 



282 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

his kindness and his counsels are among my most valued recol- 
lections." 

It is with singular pleasure the author records the above 
testimony of Georgia's most distinguished son, concerning one of 
the most gifted men ever connected with our denomination in 
this country. 

From other sources the following additional facts have been 
gathered. It was under the ministry of Dr. Holcombe that 
Mr. Clay was converted, and by him was baptized. He was 
brought up under Episcopal influence, and, even after he pro- 
fessed hope in Christ, was much perplexed on the subject of 
baptism. At one time he was conversing with the elder Fuller, 
of Beaufort, on the subject, and came to the conclusion that he 
would throw aside all books except the Bible, and search that 
only. His poedo-baptist friends drew the very natural, inference, 
" Then he'll be a Baptist." So it turned out ; for he was bap- 
tized and licensed in 1802, at Savannah, and ordained in 1804, 
hy Messrs. Furman, Cook and Holcombe. 

He preached in most of the cities of the United States, and 
finally settled in Boston, the successor of Rev. Dr. Stillman. 
But his race was short, having died in that city January 11th, 
1811. Mr. Clay was a ripe scholar, a profound jurist, a persua- 
sive orator, a refined gentleman, an humble christian. His 
family connexions are numerous and highly respectable. The 
Rev. Joseph Clay Stiles, a Presbyterian minister of great ability, 
Is a nephew of Mr. Clay. 

SAMUEL WHATLEY. 

About the year 1776, William Whatley, the father of the 
subject of these brief memoirs, removed from North Carolina, 
and settled in Wilkes county, Georgia, having a wife and four 
children, of whom Samuel was the oldest. Soon after their 
arrival in this State, his father and his uncle, Wilson Whatley, 
were killed by Indians at the Cherokee Corner, whilst engaged 
in surveying land. The care of his widowed mother and her 
orphan children devolved upon Samuel, who, at the tender age 
of fourteen, had to act the fourfold part of father, brother, son 
and soldier. He was well grown for one of his years, and the 



Samuel Whatley. 283 

death of his father and uncle roused a spirit within him, which 
prompted him at once to volunteer in his country's service, 
against the combined forces of the British and Indians. He 
accordingly served successfully under Clark, Dooly, Williamson 
and other revolutionary patriots. Did it comport with the 
design of this work, we might entertain the reader with many 
thrilling incidents of his history as a youthful soldier. We 
must confine ourselves, however, to only one or two. 

On one occasion, while connected with a company of mounted 
infantry, he was required to march in silence about twenty-five 
miles, during a freezing winter night. Being thinly clad, he 
was quite overcome by the cold, and at the end of the trip, 
was taken from his horse in a speechless state. It was with 
much difficulty, and after he had suffered unspeakable anguish, 
that he was restored to consciousness. He was in the battle at 
the siege of Augusta, when the whigs were defeated, and with 
others made his escape by swimming the Savannah river, oppo- 
site the city. He was barely able to reach the bank, and must 
have perished, but that he was pulled out by his fellow-soldiers. 
Almost destitute of clothing, he became separated from hi3 
companions, and spent the night in a tree-top alone. 'Next 
morning, he fell in with a herd of swine, which he followed to 
the main road. To his great joy, his own captain soon came 
along, took him up on his horse, and carried him safely to camp. 
Some few months afterwards, he was wounded and taken pris- 
oner in the battle of Long-Cane, South Carolina, while under 
the command of Colonel Williamson. His left arm was broken 
by a musket ball. In this situation, he was taken by the tories, 
who made one or two attempts to hang him; but failing, for 
want of a suitable rope, they delivered him to the British at 
Ninety-Six. His wound was not dressed until the third day 
after it was inflicted. From the effects of this wound, he never 
entirely recovered, and was a pensioner of the government on 
account of it. He amused the British officers by singing " Lib- 
erty songs " for them, which he was very fond of doing, and of 
which he knew a great many. The night before he. was taken 
by the tories, he lay out in the woods, and while suffering ex- 
cruciating pain from his broken arm, he was attacked by three 
wolves, from which he narrowly escaped with his life. Driven 



284 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

by hunger, the next morning, to the residence of a widow, he 
was discovered and taken by the tories, as above stated. 

How long his imprisonment continued is not known. But 
soon after his release, he returned to his mother in Wilkes 
county, where he went to school a few months. During the 
remainder of the war, he was frequently engaged in short ex- 
cursions against the enemy ; but was no more connected with 
the regular army. 

He finally married Miss Catharine Anglin, and settled in 
Wilkes county, on a tract of land, which he took up on head 
rights, and where he raised a large family, having cultivated it 
upwards of forty years. His wife is no more, and though she 
never made a public profession of religion, is believed by her 
friends to have been a lover of Jesus Christ. Soon after his 
marriage and settlement, many of his relatives from North 
Carolina and Virginia removed and located in his immediate 
neighborhood, and as they were all agreed in politics and kind 
in their feelings towards each other, Mr. Whatley considered 
himself a happy man. This happiness, however, was of short 
duration, for Silas Mercer, that faithful servant of the Lord, 
was his nearest neighbor, and did not cease to warn him of his 
guilt and danger as a sinner against God. These warnings 
were not in vain, for his eyes being opened to a discovery of 
his lost condition, he betook himself to repentance and prayer, 
day and night. His convictions and troubles continued many 
days. When, at length, the Lord was pleased to meet with 
him in mercy in a forest, where he was accustomed to retire 
for prayer, his joy was such as to prompt him to arise and 
repair to his wife, to whom he communicated the glad tidings. 
Next, he went to Silas Mercer, and informed him " what great 
things the Lord had done for his soul." Within a few months 
after his conversion, he was baptized by the said Mercer, and 
joined Phillips' Mill church, of which he continued an exem- 
plary member the remainder of his life, a period of about forty 
years. 

He soon became an active and prominent member of the 
church. But how long he enjoyed this relation, before he com- 
menced his public ministration of the Word is not known. 
Owing to his limited circumstanees, his labors were mostly 



Henry Hand. 285 

confined to 'the regions contiguous to him. Though given to 
many eccentricities, he was a man of good natural parts, and 
of a noble and generous nature. His person was tall and com- 
manding, being six feet and nearly four inches in hight, and 
weighing upwards of two hundred pounds. 

Upon the decease of Silas Mercer, the friendship of Mr. 
Whatley was transferred to Jesse Mercer, his son. This dis- 
tinguished man ever entertained much respect and sincere re- 
gard for Mr. Whatley. In like manner, was he held in high 
esteem even by men who did not fear God. At the house of an 
unbeliever, he was invited and accustomed to hold religious 
meetings. Another wicked man declared his intention to make 
him a present of a negro, " because," as he said, "Mr. Whatley 
was the best man in Wilkes county." Having died without 
fulfilling his design, his widow subsequently made him a deed 
to a likely negro boy. 

His decease took place in October, 1820, in the sixty -fifth 
year of his age, in the early part of the session of the Georgia 
Association, of which he had been so long a member. A fune- 
ral discourse was preached before that body by his intimate 
friend and brother, Jesse Mercer. The same individual contin- 
ued to preach similar discourses, in memory of Mr. Whatley, 
for several weeks in the churches most acquainted with his 
character, and which had mainly enjoj^ed the advantages of 
his labors as an evangelist. After having been once almost 
drowned, twice frozen, twice shot, and once hung, he survived 
to enjoy the blessings of liberty to a good old age, and then to 
die in peace and hope upon his own bed, at home, and in the 
midst of kindred and friends. 

HENKY HAND, 

The father of Thomas and Joseph Rand, who have both la- 
bored as ministers of the gospel in Georgia, was a native of 
New Jersey. During his early childhood, his father emigrated 
to Surry county, North Carolina, (where he spent seventeen 
years,) and thence to Georgia. Below we have a short account 
of his religious experience, call to the ministry, etc., which we 
prefer to give in his own language. 



286 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

"I was of poor but honest parents, and born May 17tl>, 1764. 
The revolutionary war prevented my parents from giving me 
an education. My mother learned me to spell and read a little. 
They tried to bring me up in the fear of God, and would press 
upon me the necessity of the new birth, which led me to seek 
the salvation of my soul in early life. But my thoughts of 
God were very imperfect ; I thought when I did good, the Lord 
loved me, and when I did evil, the Lord was angry with me. 
Thus I spent my time for years, sometimes praying and prom- 
ising the Lord that I would do better. But I would break my 
promises and sin again. After this manner I spent my life, 
until I was fifteen years old. I then had to take up arms in 
the defense of my country, which placed me in the midst of a 
wicked crew, who led me into sin more and more. I knew it 
was wrong, my conscience would often check me, and at times 
I was much distressed on account of my sins. And yet the 
Lord was good to me, and preserved me in the day of battle. 

" When I returned home, my young companions so enticed 
me I tried to take pleasure in sin, yet the thoughts of death 
and judgment would so alarm me that I could not take pleasure 
in sin as I desired. I would promise the Lord, if he would for- 
give me I would sin no more, but did not keep my promise. 
Thus I spent my time until I was eighteen years old. It now 
appeared that I had sinned so much against light and knowl- 
edge, that God would not have mercy on me. Sometimes I 
thought I had committed the unpardonable sin. My distress 
of mind was so great that I could take pleasure in sin no longer. 
I now tried to amend my life. I renewed my promise again 
with the Lord, and prayed five times daily. I forsook my 
young companions, and still I grew worse, until my case ap- 
peared hopeless. The Lord appeared so angry with me, I 
thought he would not hear my prayer. I fasted and prayed, 
and went to hear the word preached. It condemned me. My 
sins arose before me. I thought the earth cried against me, 
saying, 'See here, Lord, he has sinned.' I then fell on my face 
to the ground, but durst not pray. God appeared so just, I 
feared to mention his holy name. At length I arose and went 
groaning under a heavy burden a little way. And it seemed 
that something spoke to me, saying, 'Ask, and it shall be given 



Henry Hand. 287 

you.' I fell on ray knees and prayed, and my soul was so 
drawn out to the Lord, I thought I should receive an immediate 
answer. I was encouraged by the thought that if I did not re- 
ceive then, I should certainly receive if I continued to ask. I 
rejoiced, and thought 1 would continue to pray as long as I 
lived. I continued so for eight days, praying and striving, but 
could not receive. I then discovered the holiness of God, that 
he could not look upon sin with any allowance, and that I was 
nothing but sin. I then saw myself corrupt, no soundness in 
me, my prayers as corrupt as myself. I could not see how God 
could be just and I be spared. I then sunk into despair. If I 
had any hope of salvation, I could not realize it. I then cried, 
'Lord, can it be possible that thou canst be just, and a sinner 
he saved !' I then had a view of Christ as mediator between 
God and man. My soul then leaped for joy to see such a glo- 
rious plan of salvation through Christ. I was made to hunger 
and thirst after it for several days. Then the scriptures sounded 
in my ears, 'Fear not, little flock, it is your father's good 
pleasure to give you the kingdom ' — ' Be not faithless, but be- 
lieving.' I was now overwhelmed with joy and was constrained 
to give glory to God. 

" But it being suggested to my mind that I was not one of 
that little flock, in an instant all my joy was gone. I perceived 
how freely God had given bis people the kingdom, but conclu- 
ded I had lost it»by sinning against him. I felt that the day 
of grace was past and the door of mercy closed forever. In 
this case I continued four days, when my soul was fully set at 
liberty by the application of that scripture to my heart, ' It is 
done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room.' In a 
moment I saw God reconciled to me through Christ my Lord. 
I now found what it was to believe for myself and^not another. 
I now felt all the powers of my soul drawn out in love to God, 
his ways and his people. I now wanted to do something for 
the Lord, but found nothing that I could do, only to keep his 
commandments and follow his examples. My conversion was 
on the 23d of October, 1783, and as my blessed Saviour united 
with the Baptist church, and was baptized by John theBaptist- 
in Jordan, and commanded us to follow his examples, I there- 



288 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

fore united with the Baptist church and was baptized by a 
Baptist, Rev. George McNeal. 

"About this time my father removed to Georgia, (from South 
Carolina,) aud I had to part with my brethren whom my soul 
loved. I thought I should never love another church so well. 
When I came to Georgia I found no church for some time, but 
still felt much engaged for the salvation of sinners, pleading 
with them to forsake their sins and accept the offers of salva- 
tion. After many days I found five Baptists that had joined 
together to serve the Lord. This was a comfort to me. I 
joined the little band, and the Lord added to the number until 
a church was constituted. I now thought that if I had a house 
and home of my own I should serve God better. I made it a 
subject of prayer for direction, and being fully persuaded it was 
the will of God, I married, the 28th of November, 1784. My 
wife was not a believer, but a moral woman. In February, 
1786, she gave a declaration of her faith before the church, 
and put on Christ openly by baptism. And this I esteemed as 
one of God's favors, for which I never could feel sufficiently 
thankful. 

"The Lord visited this church in a wonderful manner, bring- 
ing many to the knowledge of the truth. I now felt the word 
was a fire in my bones, and I entered into the work more fully 
and began to preach more extensively. I continued in this 
way for some time. At length I fell into such horror, darkness 
and despair as none but a pilgrim knows. In this state I re- 
mained two years. I had such views of my un worthiness as 
made me conclude never to preach again. But after enduring 
many gloomy feelings too tedious to mention, the weight of 
preaching again returned. I fasted and prayed, and prayed 
and fasted, to know the mind of God. As I was going to meet- 
ing one day in great distress, the inquiry was pressed upon my 
mind, 'Ought you not to preach the gospel to the people?' I 
answered, 'Yes.' It then followed, 'If ye know these things, 
happy are ye if ye do them.' The cross was so great I knew 
not how to take it up. But, in the strength of the Lord, I 
made an effort to preach that day, and found happiness in the 
work. Some time thereafter, while I was reading the scrip- 
tures, that word sounded in my heart, 'Woe is me if I preach 



Henry Hand. 289 

not the gospel.' When I inquired of the Lord wherein the woe 
consisted, I seemed to receive for answer, 'He that knoweth 
his master's will and doeth it not, shall be beaten with many 
stripes.' I now looked for heavy judgments from the Lord to 
fall upon me, for my disobedience. ... At length my case 
was mentioned to the church, which gave me liberty to preach. 

" I spared no time or labor in endeavoring to improve my 
gift and education, so that I might be ' acceptable to God and 
approved of men.' The enemy being enraged turned loose a 
flood against me on every side. Yet the Lord stood by me, 
and did not suffer any of these things to move me, but blessed 
my feeble labors to many. I preached eight years before I was 
ordained. I continued an itinerant four years longer, when 
duty called me to take charge of a church fifty miles from me. 
This occurred in June, 1803. In September following, we con- 
stituted a church of thirteen members, about sixty-five miles 
from me. I took the care of that also, and in February, 1804, 
I removed and settled near to it. In 1806, our number had in- 
creased to sixty-three, thirty of whom were constituted into 
another church. I then had the charge of four churches, one 
of which was in South Carolina, about forty miles from me. 
My time was now entirely given to the work of the Lord. I 
spent a number of years in traveling and preaching, and I trust 
the Lord blessed by ministry to the salvation of hundreds. I 
rode from three to four thousand miles a year." 

The foregoing was written by himself some thirty years be- 
fore his death. It is regarded as an interesting relic of a good 
man, especially when it is remembered that he was, in the strict- 
est sense, a self-taught man, having never enjoyed a day's school- 
ing in his life. 

His labors were bestowed upon the southeastern parts of 
Georgia, and contiguous regions in South Carolina. His mis- 
sion in the latter State was from Savannah river to Beaufort, 
and thence to Charleston. He aided in constituting a church 
near Edisto, about sixty miles from him, and preached to it 
many years. In Georgia, he scattered the good seed of the 
kingdom from Savannah to Augusta, up and down the river, 
and for many miles out. If affliction in his family, or any other 
cause, prevented his attendance upon his appointments, he al- 
19 



290 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

ways suffered much distress on account of so many being de- 
prived of an opportunity to hear the gospel of the grace of 
God. Such privileges were more rare in those days than now, 
and it may be added, they seem by many to have been more 
highly prized. 

The person of Mr. Hand was large and corpulent, his coun- 
tenance open and pleasing, his voice soft and harmonious, his 
address easy and natural. The author remembers to have heard 
him but once. His theme then was christian experience, a sub- 
ject with which he seemed to be familiar, and which he treated 
with great force and powerful effect. The end of such a man 
was peace, as might have been expected. For several years 
before his death, he was laid aside from the work in which his 
best days had been spent, by old age and infirmity. In his last 
illness, he declined medicine offered him by his kind physician, 
saying, " I feel assured that my earthly toil is done, and the time 
of my departure at hand. I feel perfectly submissive. I am 
willing to go at any moment." In this frame of mind, with 
bright prospects of future bliss, did the Lord take away his ser- 
vant from the evil to come, to enjoy the rest that remaineth 
unto his people. This event occurred the 9th of January, 1837, 
in the sixty-third year of his age. 



KITTBELL WAKBEN, 

An elder brother of Hon. Lot Warren (formerly a member of 
Congress from Georgia, and for a number of years Judge of the 
Superior Court,) and General Eli Warren, a most amiable and 
talented gentleman, and a lawyer of high respectability, was 
born in Burke county, in this State, October 17th, 1786. His 
father, Josiah Warren, removed near Bear-camp church, where 
he received most of his education, and in his eighteenth year 
the family settled in Laurens county, on the Oconee river. In 
his twenty-second year he married Mrs. Floyd, daughter of 
Aaron Low, of Jefferson county. His wife was a woman of 
ardent and consistent piety. She soon discovered that her hus- 
band was the subject of strong religious impressions. These 
impressions, of course, she cherished with much assiduity and 
prayer. As he labored with his hands to support his family, 



Kittrell Warren* 291 

he was accustomed to stop by the road side on his way to his 
field, fall upon his face before the Lord, and pour out his sup- 
plications with strong cries and tears. At that period, churches 
were "few and far between." The nearest to Mr. Warren was 
some fifteen miles. Now and then, ministers would travel and 
preach through the destitute regions. Brethren Manning and 
Bates were on one of those excursions of merc3 r and love when 
one anxious sinner, at least, listened to the words of truth. Mr. 
Bates' text was, ^Behold, I bring him forth, that ye may see 
that I find no fault in him." Towards the close of his sermon, 
he paused and, in an impressive manner, exclaimed, {i Bat he 
will come again the second time, without sin, unto salvation." 
Mr. Warren was just then enabled to have a believing view of 
Christ, enthroned in majesty and glory, and something inward- 
ly whispered, " Have you an interest in this Jesus ? " His 
whole soul was immediately lit up with holy joy, and though 
it was succeeded by harassing doubts and fears, yet the good 
hope, through grace, which then sprang up in his soul never 
forsook him. 

He went forward to the church most convenient to him, and 
was baptized by Eev. Charles Culpepper, at the meeting next 
ensuing after his conversion. The family altar was immedi- 
ately erected in his house, which was never neglected after- 
wards. He was also wont to lead in prayer and praise in the 
assemblies of the saints, in his vicinity. 

In 1817, he emigrated to Alabama, and settled near the con- 
fluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers. He united with a 
church in the neighborhood, attended by Eev. Isaac Sattles. 
In May following, having to return to Georgia on business, he 
left his new home in Alabama, and rode some thirty miles, when 
he learned the negroes of the settlement through which he 
was passing expected to have a religious meeting that night. 
At his own request, he was conducted to a retired spot n a field, 
whither they were in the habit of repairing to escape the per- 
secutions and mockery of the Indians, who were numerous and 
very hostile to religion. Here he read to them from his trav- 
eling Testament, and gave them such instruction and exhor- 
tation as their situation seemed to demand. Bidding them 
an affectionate farewell, he rode on a few miles, lay down by 



292 Georgia Bajrtists — Biographical. 

the road-side and slept sweetly, though in a country infested 
with robbers, and rendered dangerous by the bands of treach- 
erous Indians, lurking about in every direction. "The wicked 
flee when no man pursueth, but the righteous are as bold as a 
lion." 

The next year he removed to another part of Alabama, where 
he began to exercise more in public, and where he was soon 
licensed to preach. This liberty was given him by Mars' Hill 
church, which desired his services. Mr. Warren possessed a 
heart of large and expansive benevolence. The orphan and 
widow were always to him objects of tender solicitude. Were 
they poor, he sent food and administered consolation to the 
one, and made judicious arrangements for the education of the 
other. Such was the confidence reposed in him by his neigh- 
bors, that he was made the umpire of many a difficulty. He 
possessed a happy faculty in reconciling differences thus sub- 
mitted to him. While he resided in Alabama, in company with 
his wife, he visited a sick young lady, whose life was despaired 
of by her physicians. Being called upon to pray for her, he 
did so in a most fervent manner. Her disease at once took a 
favorable change. She speedily recovered, and two years after- 
wards joined the church, dating her conviction from that prayer. 

In 1827, when he settled in Clark county, Alabama, there 
was no Baptist church in the vicinity. Many young people, 
grown up to mature years, had never heard the gospel from the 
lips of a Baptist minister. Being soon invited to preach at 
Clai^ksville, the county-town, he consented to' do so, and was 
about this time ordained by Messrs. Bussey, Travis and What- 
ley. His zeal prompted him to search out the most destitute 
places. Such he found at a salt manufactory, where the people 
Avere understood to be more depraved and abandoned than any 
others in all the western wilderness. Here, also, the gospel was 
made the power of God unto salvation. A great revival was 
the result of his labors under God, and many souls were hope- 
fully converted. 

A lady of character and wealth, who had always shown great 
kindness towards Mr. Warren and his family, made them a visit 
on one occasion, as she said, "for the purpose of inviting his 
daughter to attend a dancing party at her house." Instead of 



Klttrell Warren. 293 

giving his consent for his daughter to attend, he at once pub- 
lished a lecture on dancing, which he based on this text, "Wo 
to them that chant to the sound of the violin, and invent to 
themselves instruments of music like unto David." The lady 
and her family were so offended at the preacher's faithfulness, 
that they withdrew from their accustomed attendance upon 
public worshij) for months. At length, however, she was 
stricken with a painful and lingering disease. In this situation, 
she became deeply anxious about her soul, and must needs send 
for Mr. Warren to instruct and pray for her. In this instance, 
likewise, his prayer prevailed. She rose from her bed of sick- 
ness, rejoicing in hope, and was soon baptized into the fold of 
Christ. 

Having returned to Georgia and settled in Houston county, 
several years ago Mr. Warren was called to rest from his la- 
bors. The time and manner of his death are alike unknown to 
the writer. 

The substance of the above sketch, as far as it goes, was pre- 
pared for this work by his widow; but in the midst of an unfin- 
ished sentence she breaks off suddenly, for she too is smitten by 
disease. The end of her journey is just at hand ! She breathes 
one more prayer — a mother's prayer for her orphan children — 
oh ! what a prayer was that ! and then sinks sweetly into the 
arms of death. That prayer is registered in heaven, and it is 
hoped may yet be prevalent for those on whose behalf it was 
offered. 

Since the foregoing was written, additional facts concerning 
this good man have been ascertained which ought not to be 
withheld. His early opportunities for education were exceed- 
ingly limited ; yet his fondness for books was such that, after 
he attained to manhood, and even after his marriage, he prose- 
cuted his studies with such diligence and perseverance as to 
make him a good English scholar, and in the course of years to 
furnish him a most valuable amount of information. He ever 
proved himself a friend of education within the sphere of his 
influence. It was a habit with him upon leaving home, even 
for a day, to assign to his children a certain amount of reading, 
upon which they were invariably examined upon his return, 
the good effects of which are discernible in their characters to 



294 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

this day. This rule was particularly enforced when they- were 
loft at home on the Sabbath day. No family of children, per- 
haps, were ever more faithfully cautioned as to the society 
the} r should keep. In all which efforts for the good of his chil- 
dren he was cordially seconded by his excellent wife. 

He came to his death rather mysteriously in about 1837 or 
1838. It was during one of those years that he attended one 
of his preaching appointments, a few miles from his home. His 
wife started with him to meeting, but stopped on the way on 
account of the illness of a brother's child. He went on, 
preached as usual, and started on his return alone. That even- 
ing he was found lying in the road, in a dying condition, and 
speechless. It was thought at first that his death was caused 
by a fall from his horse, (he was on horseback,) but as there 
were no bruises upon his person, many supposed he died from 
apoplexy, he being a person of full habit. His surviving chil- 
dren are Eev. Elijah Warren, Rev. E. W. Warren, and Kittrell 
Warren, attorney at law. 

JESSE TEAYIS 

Was born in Warren county, in this State, September 29th, 
1794, and joined the church at the age of fourteen. He resided 
in Alabama several years, where he was ordained a deacon. In 
1829 he was set apart to the ministry at Sharon church, Henry 
county, where he was pastor several years. He was at times a 
most powerful preacher, and spake as with the "Holy Ghost 
sent clown from heaven." His conversational powers were of 
the highest order, and he used them on all occasions for good. 
He boldly opposed the unwarrantable measures of the Flint 
Eiver Association in 1830 and 1831, etc., infringing upon the 
rights of the churches. He was a man of retiring manners, 
and from his unpretending demeanor and appearance one would 
hardly have taken him for a talented man. Hence, many were 
greatty and happily surprised when he became warm in the 
delivery of his message. 

He was a christian of unbounded benevolence. At an early 
period of life he heard Luther Bice on the mission cause, then 
on his first tour through the United States. Though from 



Jesse Travis. 295 

hearsay Mr. Travis was strongly prejudiced, yet he hired a 
horse and rode some twenty miles to meeting, resolved all the 
way that he would not give one cent. His mind was enlight- 
ened, however, and having thrown in all his money, he had to 
borrow from a friend to bear his expenses home. 

During the session of the Baptist State Convention in 1833, an 
urgent appeal being made for aid in behalf of an object upon 
which the heart of Mr. Travis was much set, he gave all he had 
and borrowed that he might give more. Eev. Jesse Mercer 
passed a night with him on his way home, and voluntarily 
handed the good man an amount larger than all he had con- 
tributed during the session. His means were small, but his 
heart swelled with a charity as large as the world. 

He made it a matter of conscience to converse personally 
with his fellow mortals about the interests of their souls. In 
passing from one of his meetings on a Sunday evening, he fell 
in with a man who had been spending the Sabbath otherwise 
than in attendance on the sanctuary. They rode together only 
a mile or two. This brief period was used to press the subject 
of religion on the attention of his fellow traveler. The Lord 
sanctified the truth, and a few months afterwards the author 
baptized that man, who dated his conviction from the conver- 
sation alluded to. In company with the writer, he made his 
last trip, and then went home and died. Having stopped at an 
inn for dinner, the lady of the house was induced to listen to 
the pious exhortation of the stranger, and after prayer by Mr. 
Travis, followed us to the door, with the the earnest request 
"that her case should always be remembered at the throne of 
grace." 

His case, during a long and painful illness, excited the sym- 
pathies of his brethren far and near, especially in the Central 
Association, with which he was connected. Their kindness 
mitigated his sufferings, and their liberality supplied his wants. 
Understanding that he had became somewhat involved during 
his protracted sickness, his brethren voluntarily and without 
his knowledge made up an amount sufficient to meet all his lia- 
bilities. In the most delicate manner was this contribution 
conveyed to him only a few days before his death. He received 
it in the spirit in which it was tendered. His death, which was 



296 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

in correspondence with his character and life, took place in 
January, 1836. 



GEORGE D. SWEET. 

Through the kindness of Rev. W. B. Johnson, D. D., of South 
Carolina, the author has obtained from the widow of Mr. Sweet 
the following narrative, written mostly by himself, which he 
takes great pleasure in inserting among these sketches. It is 
gathered from a "part of his life he had commenced writing, 
and from a Sabbath diary which he kept up to his last illness." 
He was a native of Taunton, Massachusetts, and was born De- 
cember 13th, 1779. 

"It appears necessary for me first to mention that I was 
sprinkled in my infancy in the Episcopal form, in consequence 
of which I was thought eligible to hold the office of vestryman 
in Savannah, which I did for several years, without repentance 
or any idea of vital religion. I was called on by my friends, at 
a very early period of my life, to be confirmed, the Bishop then 
being in Newport, Rhode Island, where he then lived. At 
that time I could know but little of the importance of the reli- 
gion of Jesus, and was ignorant as to the nature of baptism. 
And as to confirmation, I knew not what it meant : so I refused 
to be confirmed. What were my reasons for doing so I know 
not; but so, it was ordered by an overruling Providence, that 
contrary to the gentle entreaties and positive commands of my 
friends, I persisted in refusing. About the year 1792, at the 
age of eleven or twelve, I left my friends in Newport for Hud- 
son, in the State of New York, it being their desire that I 
should study physic with a Dr. Wheaton. I remained with 
him upwards of a year, during which time I was under power- 
ful convictions. Not recollecting particularly the nature of my 
impressions at that time, I shall not attempt to record them. 
My aversion to the apothecary's shop increased to such a de- 
gree that my friends consented to my return. My desire was 
to become a merchant. Soon after my return to Newport, I 
obtained a place in a retail store, which shortly opened a way 
for me in a wholesale store in New York. Here I readily im- 
bibed principles of infidelity,. young as I was, from listening to 



George D. Sweet 297 

the conversations of those with whom I resided. This was, if 
I recollect rightly, about the time " Paine 's Age of Beason" 
made its appearance in New "York. And, notwithstanding I 
was strengthened in error by that abominable production, yet, 
whenever I was constrained by untoward circumstances to se- 
rious reflection, I felt great doubt and apprehension, which 
generally produced severe remorse of conscience. And I do 
not hesitate to declare that, however professed deists may 
boast of the strength of their unbelief, there are seasons when 
each and every one of them who steadfastly set their hearts to 
resist the light of truth, feel its energy in flashes of conviction. 
But, alas ! as I once did, so do they — endeavor to silence that 
faithful but troublesome monitor, in the dreadful delusion of 
pleasure. 

"From the failure of my employers, I experienced several 
changes of situation in New York, in all of which I was left 
almost entirely to my own government. I ran into excesses; 
but oh, that God who hath watched over and guarded me from 
my infanc}^, kept me back from many presumptuous sins, by 
his restraining grace, that my heart would have drawn me 
into. I was ambitious to preserve an unblemished reputation. 
A virtuous action in another, always created in me a desire of 
imitation. But alas! bad examples and dissipated company 
soon familiarized me with vice. So that those things I once 
shuddered at in others, I could now bear with, and could finally 
practice without remorse. Thus did vice insinuate itself into 
my affections, until I became a votary to pleasure and dissipa- 
tion. 

" Towards the close of the year 1799, the merchant with 
whom I lived, having considerable interest in a commercial house 
in Savannah, Georgia, and being rather doubtful as to its se- 
curity, and not needing my services any longer, proposed my 
seeking a situation in this region of country, offering me assis- 
tance and support in the way of business. Oh, how mercifully 
did the Lord watch over me during my residence in New York, 
preserving me in the midst of innumerable dangers. Several 
times was I raised from the bed of sickness, when my life was 
despaired of. In 1795, when 'pestilence walked in darkness, 
and destruction wasted at noonday,' although thousands fell 



298 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

at my side, and I lay in the last stage of the yellow fever — 
given over by my physician and friends — then surely did the 
Lord deliver me from the noisome pestilence, and afterwards 
from the snare of the fowler. I remember I was much troubled 
in my mind during this visitation. Many of my sins were 
brought to my recolection, and in my delirium it appeared to 
me that I was constantly struggling with a lion. Yet I do not 
think I apprehended death, although I had the black vomit. 
The family with whom I boarded fled the city soon after I was 
taken, leaving a servant maid to take care of the house and 
me. She was soon taken with the distemper, and the Lord 
was pleased to provide two or three friends to take care of us, 
by calling occasionally, and bringing and sending us necessary 
nourishment, so that we were not left entirely destitute. 

" In December, 1799, I left New York for Savannah. After 
a short and boisterous passage we arrived, when I was kindly 
received and found sufficient employment. I very soon felt a 
sympathy for the black people, and would sometimes reflect 
how much delight it would give me, were it in my power, to 
afford them relief. Though habit soon familiarized me to their 
condition, I must say I never felt a disposition to consider them 
as beasts, of burden. 

" In about six months, an opening presented itself for me to 
engage in business on my own account, which I did in connec- 
tion with two partners, one of whom was established. I con- 
sidered myself a complete merchant — could make the best of a 
bad bargain — felt no compunction in overreaching my neighbor 
or overcharging my friend. About June, 1800, 1 left Savannah 
for New York, to obtain credit and make commercial friends, 
and on my way to Boston I visited my aunt and sister in New- 
port, Rhode Island. And here, in gratitude to my dear friends, 
I must mention that nry sister and myself were left orphans ; 
our earthly father being, as was supposed, lost at sea before I 
was born, and our mother dying while I was an infant. But 
our God raised us up a mother in my father's sister, who was, 
perhaps, too fond of me for my good. My sister tenderly loved 
me, and her fervent prayers have been heard in my behalf." 

Mr. Sweet accomplished the object of his Northern tour, and 
returned to Savannah elated.with success. In 1801, he became 



George B. Sweet 299 

acquainted with Miss E. E. Porchee, to whom he entered into 
an engagement for marriage, which was consummated the 21st 
of December, of that year. His business seemed to be in a 
very prosperous way, and he now considered himself a happy 
man. This dream of happiness, however, lasted but a few 
months. Speculations in which his firm had embarked proved 
unsuccessful, and his prospects were at once overshadowed. 
Upon the birth of their first child, in January, 1803, he pro- 
posed to his wife that they should read a chapter in the Bible 
every night. This exercise was blessed to his awakening. 
" This verse, ' The sceptre shall not depart from Judah,' etc., 
elicited the first ray of divine light that ever phone on my be- 
nighted soul" His mind Was more or less interested on the 
subject of religion for several years. 

In 1807, he relinquished mercantile pursuits and retired to a 
farm. Here his seriousness was much increased, and in 1809, 
the death of several relatives and friends deeply affected him. 
He writes, "Death is certain, but the time allotted for us, wc 
know not. Therefore, how necessary is preparation for the 
awful event ! awful, indeed, to those who are not ready! 'In 
the midst of life we are in death.' Oh, that these words could 
be so impressed upon my mind as to make me set about the 
great work of repentance ! " The work he did set about in 
earnest. His wife was on a visit in the city to Mrs. Williams, 
wife of Eev. Thomas Williams. He writes to her, u Tell Mr. 
Williams that I can call him brother now, for Christ Jesus is 
my Eedeemer." He was baptized in Savannah river (he pre- 
ferred the river to the font,) by Dr. Holcombe, May 13, 1810, 
and soon joined Sunbury church by letter. Two years after- 
wards, he was ordained by Rev. W. B. Johnson, then pastor in 
Savannah, and Eev. C. 0. Screven, pastor in Sunbury. The 
sermon was preached by Dr. Johnson. The exercises connected 
with his ordination being over, he proceeded at once to admin- 
ister the ordinance of baptism to seventy-six persons, " upon a 
lively profession of their faith in Christ." This was at a church 
in Bryan county. Eight more were received the same day by 
letter, and the exercises closed by the administration of the 
Lord's Supper. "A number of former acquaintances had col- 
lected from different parts — many from Savannah — to witness 



300 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

his ordination, a great many more than the house could hold. 
The same thing happened when he was baptized, his conver- 
sion being a remarkable one, from so gay a man, caused the 
world to wonder and desire to know what manner of spirit he 
was of." 

Mr. Sweet labored faithfully and successfully the few years 
allotted to him in his Master's vineyard ; for, when he died, 
January 29, 1818, there were seven hundred and forty-seven 
members in his church. The most of these were colored per- 
sons. In August, 1817, he was brought very low by a violent 
attack of fever, from the effects of which he never recovered. 
He met his congregation for the last time the second Sabbath 
in January, 1818. Riding home in a rain produced cold and in- 
flammation of his lungs, which brought him speedily to the 
grave. 

When his end approached, the friends present urged his wife 
to leave the room. He let go her hand, saying, "Yes, go to 
your children." His death was most triumphant. His friend 
aucl brother, Eev. C. O. Screven, was with him in his last mo- 
ments. He was taken away in the midst of life and usefulness, 
having only attained to his fortieth year. 

From the pen of Eev. Dr. Johnson, of South Carolina, we 
have the following testimonial : " It was my privilege to enjoy 
the intimacy and confidence of this dear man of God, and I re- 
garded it an honor to do so. For he was, indeed, a most devo- 
ted disciple and minister of the Lord Jesus Christ. There was 
something remarkable about the character of my friend. Be- 
fore our acquaintance, he had conceived a violent opposition to 
me, simply because I believed and preached the doctrine of 
God's electing love. And to such a height did that opposition 
rise, that he meditated, and took some incipient measures to in- 
flict bodily harm upon me ; but God restrained him. After his 
conversion, no brother loved me more sincerely than he. 

"As he rode, in the days of his impenitence, in company with 
a friend by the meeting -house, then in building, in which after- 
wards he so successfully labored, he said, ' That house is build- 
ing for me to preach in ;' and on another occasion, with a like 
prophetic spirit, uttered the following couplet: 

' If ever I'm a preacher, 
The Lord shall be my teacher.' 






John Ililner, Jr. 301 

Both became true; for, during the absence of his family, the 
Lord arrested him at his retired country seat, renewed, forgave 
and justified him without the instrumentality of a living teacher. 
The Lord made him a preacher in the same way ; and in that 
meeting-house, in which he afterwards so faithfully and effect- 
ively labored, he did indeed preach the gospel of that Lord." 

The author recollects to have heard Mr. Sweet preach once 
in Sunbury, the only time he ever heard him. Never was 
a congregation more perfectly enchained in their attention. 
His control over the passions of his hearers was absolute. They 
rose and fell at the preacher's bidding. Occasionally he ex- 
cited a smile, but, almost throughout the entire discourse, the 
audience were bathed in tears. Men wept that day who were 
scarce ever known to weep before. This was near the close of 
his life. 

JOHN MILNER, Jr. 

To write the biography of one who was more highly valued 
in all the relations of life by those who knew him best, or whose 
death was more lamented by a numerous circle of friends and 
acquaintances, rarely falls to the lot of man. The writer ex- 
ceedingly regrets that this worthy man has left so few mate- 
rials in writing to aid in making out this sketch of his life and 
labors. 

He was born October 17th, 1775. His father was a licensed 
preacher of the Baptist denomination, his mother a member of 
the same church, and a most godly woman. Old Mr. Milner, 
who was a staunch whig in the revolution, suffered much from 
his tory neighbors. On one occasion, while his wife was absent 
in the neighborhood, two of them came into his field, took two 
of his best horses from the plough, gathered together all his 
negroes and drove them off before his face, threatening to shoot 
him down if he spoke a word. They had not proceeded far 
when they met Mrs. Milner returning home. The negroes 
cried out in great distress, " Oh, mistress, de tories takin' us all 
off. Oh, mistress, what shall we do ?" She answered, " Why, 
go back, every one of you. You shall not go off a step. Go 
right back home." "Oh, mistress, dey'll kill us." "No, they 



302 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

shan't kill you. Go back." The torieshung down theirheads, 
while the negroes turned back with their mistress. His sons, 
John and Pitt, once set off to market with a loaded wagon, 
very early one morning, without having waited for family prayer. 
They had not gone far before their well trained team stalled, 
and they had to return home for help. The father used the 
circumstance to impress their minds with the importance of 
punctuality to our religious duties, especially family prayer. 
And he was so successful that they seemed never to have for- 
gotten it. The subject of this notice took up the cross and 
prayed in his family long before he joined the church. 

His education was limited to the ordinary branches of English. 
He was not one who could boast that he had finished his educa- 
tion. He believed, on the contrary, that a minister of the gos- 
pel should never feel that his education is completed, but 
should continue through life to "'-study to show himself ap- 
proved unto God." Woe to that minister, and to the people of 
his charge, who feels that he has no longer any occasion for 
improvement ! 

On the 24th of December, 1795, he was married to Miss 
Eunice Callaway. Some years after their marriage, his wife 
became anxiously concerned about the state of her soul. Though 
he made no pretentions to religion at that time, yet he kindly 
invited Eev. Jesse Mercer to visit and converse with his wife. 
Mr. Mercer complied, and soon after he had the happiness to 
baptize Mrs. Callaway upon a profession of her faith in Christ. 
Several years intervened before Mr. Milner himself became in- 
terested about the great salvation. In a distressed state of 
mind, he went some distance to hear Mr. Mercer preach. Under 
the sermon he found no relief. His trouble was greatly in- 
creased. He followed the preacher to his horse, filled with 
awful sensations. In deep agony he grasped Mr. Mercer's hand, 
saying, "What shall I do? I am lost! I am lost!" Mr. Mer- 
cer calmly replied, " I was once at the house of a man, (allud- 
ing to his visit to Mrs. Milner,) whose wife was in awful dis- 
tress, and when I tried to comfort her, her husband remarked, 
if he were in her place, he would believe in Christ. Now, I 
reckon the best w T ay will be to go and believe in Christ." And 
so he left the poor man in deep waters. After a sore conflict, 



John Milner, Jr. 303 

God was pleased to reveal his Son in him, while reading the 
following lines of Dr. Young : 

"The ransom was paid down; the fund of heaven, 
Heaven's inex'austible, exhausted fund, 
Amazing and amazed, poured forth the price, 
All price beyond— 

And was the ransom paid ? It was, and paid 
(What can exalt the bounty more?) for you I 

He was baptized by Mr. Mercer at Sardis church, Wilkes 
county, February 22d, 1812. He was first appointed clerk of 
the church, then deacon, then exhorter. In these capacities 
did he serve several years before his ordination, which took 
place after his removal to Jones county, say in 1825. The pres- 
bytery consisted of Malachi Eeeves, Benjamin Milnerand Ive- 
son L. Brookes. His labors were not confined to his own im- 
mediate vicinity, but were extended into remote regions. His 
preaching was well received wherever he went. On one of his 
preaching tours he fell in with a gentleman (as he believed, 
providentially,) from whom he purchased the tract of land 
upon which Barnesville, in Pike county, now stands. His old- 
est son made a settlement upon it, in visiting whom, from time 
to time, Mr. Milner found a few sheep scattered about in the 
wilderness, the country being then quite new. These he gath- 
ered into the church now known as Sardis, at Barnesville. 
This little band at first consisted of less than a dozen members. 
At the period of Mr. Milner's death, 1841, it had increased to 
near one hundred and twenty members. It was in 1827 that 
he left Jones county and settled near this church. Here again 
his zeal impelled him to press into the surrounding neighbor- 
hood, holding forth the lamp of life. Other churches were 
soon gathered, to which he ministered. As his bodily strength 
declined, his sphere of usefulness continued to enlarge. And 
as his end drew near his way was " as the path of the just, 
which shineth more and more unto the perfect day." No ser- 
vice was too arduous, no sacrifice too great, " so that he might 
finish his course with joy, and the ministry he had received of 
the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God." If 
such examples do not rouse us preachers of these days to a full 
sense of our responsibilities, it is feared we may be given over 
to blindness of mind and obduracy of heart. Oh, let us be fol- 



304 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

lowers of those who, through faith and patience, have inherited 
the promises. 

While Mr. Milner exerted a good influence in public, his social 
and private influence was still better. He was often heard to 
affirm, but not boastingly but with gratitude to God, that he 
had never sworn a profane oath, nor gambled to any amount, 
nor purchased a half pint of spirituous liquors. Such high 
toned morality is believed to be rarely found in the youth of 
this age of boasted improvement. He obeyed the injunction, 
"Husbands, love your wives." A more affectionate and atten- 
tive husband perhaps never lived. As a father, his examples, 
his counsels, and his prayers seem to have had a most happy 
effect upon his children, most of them being pious, and all of 
them persons of moral worth. 

Mr. Milner lived to a good old age, having died in his sixty- 
sixth year, January 21, 1841. For twenty years he had been a 
faithful laborer in his Master's vineyard. On the Sabbath pre- 
ceding his decease he attended divine service at Sardis church 
and preached from Acts xiii. 38, 39. He had a slight attack 
(an affection of the heart,) on that day. On Monday evening 
it was renewed with such violence as to baffle all medical skill, 
and continued till Wednesday evening following, when death 
came to his relief. To a daughter he said, " I shall die, but I 
am not afraid of death." To his children he said, " Oh, my 
children, I have taught you in the way. I have kept the faith 
of the gospel." 

His burial was attended by a large and weeping assembly, 
and the church convened and expressed by resolution the esti- 
mation in which they held their late pastor. The limits of 
this work prevent us from enlarging this notice. 

EDWAED P. POSTELL. 

Mr. Postell is believed to have been a native of South Caro- 
lina. The date of his birth is not known. Mr. Law* says — 
" His life was not an eventful one. At an early age he entered 
the service of his country (as a midshipman in the navy) in 
which he remained three years. Eeturning home, he studied 

*Rev. Josiah S. Law. 



Edward P. PostelL 305 

the law and was admitted to the bar in South Carolina. He did 
not practice long, before he removed to this State, and devoted 
himself entirely to planting. Some four or five years ago he 
was brought by the power of divine truth to behold himself a 
condemned sinner in the sight of God, and to feel his need of 
pardon and salvation. He has often, with deep emotion, told 
me of that season of trial and bitter sorrow. He has pointed 
me to the spot where he often retired in anguish of soul and 
plead with his God for forgiveness through the merits of his 
Son. He at length found peace in believing, and connected 
himself with the South Newport Baptist church, Mcintosh 
county. His soul seemed bent on doing good to others. For 
the salvation of the young, particularly, he always manifested 
a lively interest. I have known him win the respect, the con- 
fidence and the affection of young men, and converse freely 
with them on the subject of religion, who could not not be ap- 
proached by any other on that subject. 

"If I mistake not, the first thing that turned his attention 
to the ministiy, and kindled in his soul that zeal which soon 
consumed his body, was the condition of our colored people as 
regards moral instruction. It was to them he first preached 
the gospel, and it was for them he desired most earnestly to 
labor. In accordance with this feeling, he at one time removed 
to Savannah, intending to devote himself entirely to the reli- 
gious instruction of the colored population of that place. He 
had labored there but a very short time, when it became neces- 
sary for him to return to his residence in Mcintosh county. 

"He was called to ordination by the South Newport church, 
and soon afterwards to become their pastor. He was accord- 
ingly ordained, and entered upon his pastoral duties with zeal 
and diligence. In prosecuting the work of the ministry it was 
in vain that his body often complained; it was in vain that the 
lassitude and debility experienced after preaching admonished 
him to restrain his ardor ; it was in vain that the voice of 
friendship and love called upon him to spare himself, and pointed 
him to those symptoms as indications of the breaking down of 
nature. He did not spare himself, but taxed all his jDOwers to 
their utmost capacity that he might be acceptable and useful as 
a minister of the gospel. He grew rapidly in knowledge and 
20 



306 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

usefulness. He had not labored long, after entering fully upon 
the work of the ministry, before his lungs gave fearful signs 
that they were giving way under the heavy tasks imposed 
upon them. But being possessed of a strong frame, an expan- 
sive chest, and naturally strong lungs, he heeded not these 
signs, but went onward in his work; and, in all probability, had 
he not been called by the mysterious providence of God to res- 
cue his only son from a watery grave, he might have lived and 
labored longer." An account of this event is given in a letter to 
one of his brothers in Savannah, as follows : 

"Your letter of the 22d reached me yesterday, and, thanks 
to Almighty God, it found me alive, and my house not one of 
mourning. On Friday afternoon last, the weather being fine 
and the tide suitable, I took Charles (his son) into the river 
and taught him to swim. On Saturday, during my absence at 
meeting, he obtained his mother's permission, and went into 
the river to improve himself in the art he had just entered his 
noviciate. In the afternoon, on my return home, he expressed 
himself not a little pleased at what he considered his improve- 
ment. On his return from school on Monday afternoon, he 
asked and obtained my permission to go again into the river. 
It was on the flood, nearly high water. You know that, in 
front of the house, on the flood, there is an eddy of considera- 
ble extent, outside of which the stream runs with great veloc- 
ity. The little canoe was at anchor in the eddy, with a long 
scope of cable. Charles had been amusing himself by swim- 
ming near the boat, and anon would rest himself by suspending 
to her. While he was thus amusing himself, the boat was sheer- 
ing towards the stream without his being aware of it, and upon 
his last quitting his hold, he was forcibly drawn into the cur- 
rent, and the boat simultaneously approached the shore. I was 
at the time reclining on the sofa, nervous and exhausted from 
the excitement of two days' meeting, my wife seated near me, 
when we were startled by his whoop from the water, which 
was immediately repeated. On springing to the window, the 
first thing that met my view was my only son, at least one- 
fourth the width of the river from the shore, and rapidly re- 
ceding. (The river is near half a mile wide.) It was but the 
work of a moment for me "to throw off my jacket as I ran, and 



Edward P. PostelL 307 

plunge into the waves. I remembered that I had on a pair of 
large, heavy shoes, but as they were securely tied across my 
instep, I feared that in the time necessary for me to untie and 
throw them off, his strength would be exhausted, and he sink 
before I could reach him. They nearly proved fatal to us both. 
I succeeded in gaining him while he was yet above the water, 
and judging from his countenance that he was not very much 
alarmed, I thought it best not to take hold of him, but to turn 
my back and direct him to place his hands upon my shoulders. 
He did so, and while my strength lasted, all seemed well ; but 
that failing, together with the weight of the shoes, which I 
now began to feel sensibly, I gradually sunk into the water. 
At that time, the pressure of the child upon me became insup- 
portable ; I endeavored to tell him so, but my mouth was under 
water, and I could not articulate. I then hoped by diving to 
reach the shore ; but the want of breath soon rendered it nec- 
essary that I should reach the surface ; but this I could not do 
with the child holding to*me. I now thought that, by gaining 
the bottom, I might, by a desperate effort, propel myself to the 
top, but this I could not effect ! Instinctive love of life, to- 
gether with the last view of my wife and five helpless little 
girls in agony, with clasped hands, standing in the piazza, de- 
termined me to break his hold. But the thought of throwing 
off my child, who was clinging to me for life, was a dagger to 
my heart. Then did I, as Jonah, cry unto the Lord out of the 
deep, and he heard me. In shoving Charles from me, I had 
forced him to the surface, and upon my rising, I beheld my 
faithful servant, Prince, up to his arm-pits in the water, in the 
act of springing into the boat. Again did my hope revive, and 
seeing my child beside me struggling for life, I took him by the 
arm with my left hand and swam with the other, until, once 
more exhausted, we again sank. On coming to the surface a 
second time, I found Charles already up and swimming. I called 
to him not to give up, that Prince would soon be to us. He re- 
plied with calmness, and I took comfort. We were within five 
feet of each other, and all that I could do was to watch the ap- 
proach of the boat and encourage him by words. I do not 
think, had I seen my child again sinking, that I could have 
made another effort for his salvation. Indeed, there is but little 



308 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

doubt but that I should have drowned first, for I was caught by 
Prince, as I was sinking the third time, probably to rise no more, 
and Charles swam to the boat. I thank my God that my pres- 
ence of mind remained with me to the last, Prince wished to 
draw me into the boat, but as she was small, in the attempt she 
would, no doubt, have upset. I directed him to let me hang by 
the gunwale and save Charles, to whom he immediately exten- 
ded his hand. 

"I think (he further observes) I can distinctly see the hand 
of the Lord in our rescue from a watery grave. PI ad not the 
boat continued to sheer in from the time of Charles' leaving 
her, she would have been out of the servant's reach, and had 
he found a paddle in her, in his anxiety he may have passed 
over me in my exhausted state, or had he succeeded in securing 
me in his hold, had the boat been passing swiftly through the 
water, after saving me she would have shot beyond Charles 
But he was compelled to propel her with his hands, and the 
approach was therefore gradual, so that as soon as my weight 
was suspended to her she stopped and was approached by 
Charles." The preacher adds : " Thus was he delivered by his 
God from a watery grave, afterward to repose beneath the cold 
sods of the valley. 

" From this time his health declined rapidly, baffling the 
skill of the physician. Many of you remember the last time he 
occupied this pulpit, when, in an earnest and solemn manner, 
he addressed you from the interesting passage, truly signifi- 
cant of what shortly awaited him, 'There remaineth therefore 
a rest for the people of God.' He seemed at this time to feel 
that he should not survive long, that his end was rapidly ap- 
proaching, for on descending from the pulpit, being requested 
by me to preach a funeral sermon in memory of a deceased 
friend, he replied, 'His own would soon be preached.' Some 
little time after this, he was confined to his bed to rise no more. 
It was a bed of pain and suffering, yet not a murmur escaped 
his- lips ; but he submitted patiently to him who doeth all things 
well. All who visited him bear testimony to the entire resigna- 
tion he manifested to the will of God. A ministering brother, 
who was with him the day before his decease, beholding his 
situation and observing that every moment was spent in strug- 



Jack Lumpkin. 309 

gling for breath, stated to brother Postell that ' his painful con- 
dition forced upon his mind the folly of putting off repentance 
to a deathbed,' he replied, l I thank my God^ I did that four 
years ago.' The minister, having further remarked upon the 
preciousness of Christ as a Saviour, in sustaining his followers 
even in the dark valley and shadow of death, he lifted his 
hands and eyes towards heaven, exclaiming, ' It is but a shad- 
ow ! His rod and his staff, they comfort me.' " 

Thus did this gifted man live and die. The author's ac- 
quaintance with Mr. Postell was quite limited ; yet he remem- 
bers that his personal appearance was fine, his countenance the 
very index of a magnanimous and noble spirit, and his voice 
possessed a richness and power rarely equaled. He took great 
delight in singing the songs of Zion, which uniformly produced 
a happy effect, owing to the power of his voice. His house 
was ever open to his numerous friends, where they met with a 
hospitality corresponding with his generous nature, and which 
was rendered doubly enticing by the agreeable manners and 
interesting conversation for which he was noted, and by the 
intelligence and amiable deportment of his pious wife. His 
talents, which were of a high order, were consecrated to the 
honor of the King of kings. " Whoso honoreth me, him shall 
my Father honor." 

His death was about nine o'clock Wednesday night, the 7th 
of October, 1837, in the thirty-eighth year of his age. 

JACK LUMPKIK, 

A brother of Governor Wilson Lumpkin, was born in Vir- 
ginia, about 1784, joined the church at County Line, Oglethorpe 
county, and was ordained in July, 1812, by Jesse Mercer and 
Thomas Ehodes. His residence for many years was near An- 
tioch, some seven miles west of Lexington, where he died in 
1839. He had been to Mississippi, where he had settled a 
plantation some years previously, and returned, much fatigued 
with the journey, was soon taken sick and died of a fever. 

Mr. Lumpkin was a laborious minister of Jesus Christ, and 
was pastor at Antioch some twenty-five years, also at Shiloh, 
Beard's meeting-house, Newhope and other places. He was 



310 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

active in raising up Mount Pleasant, and was pastor there some 
years. About 1818 he fell into a desponding frame of mind, his 
health was much impaired, so that he did not preach much in 
two years ; but when relieved of his despondency, he was even 
more active than ever in his Master's cause. He was a very 
conscientious man, and could not be persuaded or driven out 
of the path of rectitude. No pastor was more beloved. His 
affectionate manner and feeling preaching endeared him very 
much to all his congregations. 

His opportunities for education were not favorable, but he 
had a good native mind and thoroughly studied the scriptures. 
About 1821 he procured a small but valuable library of stand- 
ard and theological works, which he studied with assiduity, and 
from which he derived much knowledge. Prior to this period, 
his membership was in a church in the Sarepta Association, by 
which he was chosen as one of a committee to meet our Pres- 
byterian brethren to devise some means to prevent Sabbath 
breaking and kindred vices. Mr. Lumpkin did not regard the 
Sabbath in the same light in which others regarded it, i. e., he 
did not attach such an an over-degree of sanctity to it as to place 
it above all other gospel requisitions. Nothing definite was 
accomplished in his conference with the Presbyterians. It 
should not be inferred that Mr. Lumpkin was a careless ob- 
server of the Sabbath. Nothing would be further from truth. 

John Bumpkin, his father, when he came from Virginia, say 
1785, settled some ten miles southeast of Lexington, Oglethorpe 
county, which was his unchanged residence until death removed 
him, about 1834. He was not a religious man. He was in the 
Convention to revise the State Constitution, and also in our 
Legislature. Mrs^ Lumpkin was a devotedly pious woman. 

Neville Bumpkin, one of the sons of the subject of this notice, 
was a young minister of much promise. He had charge of the 
same churches served by his father at the time of his death. 
He likewise died suddenly, in 1843. 



Jesse Mercer. 311 

JESSE MEECEE. 

Notwithstanding an extended and most interesting memoir 
of Mr. Mercer has been extensively circulated in the State, from 
the pen of Eev. C. D. Mallary, the author of this work supposes 
his name, at least, ought to appear among those of his brethren. 
It is believed, however, that a very brief notice of him is all 
that is needed here. 

He was the son of Silas Mercer, one of the pioneers of the 
gospel in Georgia, and was born in Halifax county, North Car- 
olina, December 16, 1769. He was the eldest of a family of 
eight children, consisting of five sons and three daughters. He 
was a most amiable and moral youth, having never been known 
to be overcome by passion, or to have used a profane oath. His 
conversion took place when he was about fifteen years of age, 
he was baptized in his eighteenth year, and soon after began to 
preach the gospel. His marriage to Miss Sabrina Chivers oc- 
curred in his nineteenth year, January 31, 1788, with whom he 
lived till the period of her death, in 1826. Mr. Mercer's oppor- 
tunities for education in early life were very poor, and his sub- 
sequent improvement and usefulness seem to have been greatly 
promoted by his first wife. He was ordained before he was , 
twenty years old, by Silas Mercer and Sanders Walker. Though 
so very young, he was called to the pastoral care of Hutton's 
Fork, (now Sardis,) in Wilkes county, which relation he sus- 
tained for more than twenty years. 

Such was his desire for education that, even after his marri- 
age and ordination, he sold out his little farm and went to school 
two years to Mr. Springer, a Presbyterian clergyman, under 
whom he obtained some knowledge of the learned languages. 
Erom this time, the field of his labors was much enlarged, and 
we find him not only preaching to the churches at Powelton 
and Eatonton, (then the most important in the interior of the 
State,) but traveling far and near, and being well received every- 
where. He was the most influential minister of his day, and 
perhaps the most distinguished minister of the denomination 
ever reared up in the State. Yet many others were more suc- 
cessful in gathering members into the church, and, indeed, of 
promoting revivals of religion. 



312 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

In 1798, Mr. Mercer was a member of the Convention which 
was appointed to amend the State Constitution. His services 
iu that body were highly valuable. A lawyer moved that min- 
isters of the gospel be ineligible to the office of legislator, which 
was warmly advocated by both doctors and lawyers. Mr. Mer- 
cer offered an amendment, to the effect that both these profes- 
sions be included in the contemplated Act. The motion was 
speedily withdrawn. He offered once for Senator in the county 
where he then resided, but was not elected. Afterwards, he was 
urged to allow his name to be used for the office of Governor, 
but positively declined the honor. 

On several occasions did he represent his brethren in the ses- 
sions of the Triennial Convention of the United States, always 
with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his constituents. 
The degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred upon him by 
Brown University, though the title was seldom applied to him 
among his immediate friends, knowing it would not be agreea- 
ble to him. For many years he was moderator of the Georgia 
Association, of the Baptist State Convention, and, indeed, of 
all the general meetings of the denomination when he was 
present, and where it was meet he should act in that capacity. 
His second marriage was to Mrs. Simons. 

His approach to the tomb was gradual, he having experienced 
a low state of health for years before his death. This event, 
deeply lamented by thousands, took place at the residence of 
Bev. James Carter, Butts county, September 6, 1841. His re- 
mains were taken to Penfield, and buried near the site of Mer- 
cer University, named in honor of him. His estate, which was 
large for a Georgia minister, was bequeathed to the above Uni- 
versity, and other benevolent objects. Seldom has the world 
been blessed with such a man as Jesse Mercer. 

Since the foregoing was published, Mr. Mercer has been gross- 
ly misrepresented in a work by "W. H. Sparks — " Memories of 
Fifty Years." It is charged that he took advantage of an invi- 
tation from the Legislature to preach a funeral sermon in mem- 
ory of Governor Babun, and instead thereof, delivered a bitter 
political harangue, aimed at Governor Clarke, Babun's succes- 
sor. The Journals of the Legislature show, on the contrary, 
that he preached, on that occasion, " a pathetic and appropriate 



Billington 31. Sanders. 313 

sermon," which was published by that body, a majority of which 
were political friends of Clarke, and who had but recently elec- 
ted him to office. 



BILLINGTON M. SANDERS. 

Eev. B. M. Sanders was the eldest child of Ephraim and 
Nancy Sanders, who were natives of Virginia, and shortly after 
their marriage removed to Georgia and settled in Columbia 
county. He was born in that county December 2d, 1789. But 
little can now be ascertained respecting the days of his child- 
hood and early youth. It appears, however, that his father 
died in 1796 and his mother in 1798, so that he was left an or- 
phan at a tender and helpless age. The Lord, however, gra- 
ciously provided for the lad. He found a home in the family 
of a Mr. Ambrose Jones, where, it is believed, he was treated 
with kindness. It further appears that in 1802 he was a pupil 
in the Kiokee Seminary, sometimes known as McNeil's Sem- 
inary, then under the care of a Mr. Bush. At this institution 
he probably commenced and completed his preparation for col- 
lege. The following interesting reminiscence was kindly fur- 
nished rne by a distinguished citizen of this State, (Major Joel 
Crawford, of Early county,) who, it seems, was a class-mate 
and a very intimate friend of young Sanders at the Kiokee 
Seminary: "As a school-boy, Sanders was apt to learn, high 
tempered, a little proud, and quite spirited, but always truth- 
ful, kind-hearted and generous, with strong development of 
reverence. I never loved a class-mate better, though, being a 
stouter boy, I sometimes fretted him for my own amusement, 
and besides the laugh which I probably enjoyed, received from 
him many of his severest blows, which I made it a point never 
to return, having in every case been myself the aggressor." 

He entered Franklin College probably in 1806, where he re- 
mained, it is supposed, about two years. He then left Athens 
and entered the South Carolina College, April 8th, 1808, at 
which institution he graduated December 4th, 1809, and, it is 
believed, reputably to himself, though compelled to be absent 
from his class a portion of the time in consequence of feeble 
health. Among his class-mates at Columbia were several young 



314 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

men who, like himself, subsequently became quite distinguished: 
James L. Pettigrew, an eminent lawyer of Charleston ; William 
J. Grayson, member of Congress from South Carolina, and Wil- 
liam Capers, Bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His 
room-mate was a wild youth, but, out of respect to Sanders, he 
never brought his rude companions to his room, and thus the 
diligent student and the irregular youth roomed together in 
much harmony. It was a uniform rule with him never to allow 
any intrusion upon his studies. If a fellow-student called, he 
would kindly invite him to a seat, and then turn to his books 
and prosecute his literary task. And yet some of his col- 
lege habits were not the most commendable. He was a great 
slave to tobacco ; but the day he graduated he broke off from 
this habit and never afterwards resumed it. 

Upon leaving college he returned to his native county, where 
he resided until the latter part of 1832. In January, 1810, he 
was baptized into the Kiokee church by Eev. Abram Marshall. 
He was rector of the Columbia County Academy two years, 
and on March 17th, 1812, was united in marriage with Miss 
Martha Lamar, of Applington, by whom he had nine children, 
all of whom, except two, died in infancy and childhood. His 
first wife having died in 1822, he was married to Miss Cynthia 
Holliday, (the pious and estimable lady who survives him,) of 
Lincoln county, February 25th, 1824. Thirteen children were 
the fruit of his second marriage, several of whom are still living. 

Immediately upon the close of his labors as a teacher at Ap- 
plington, he settled upon a plantation in Columbia cOunty, 
where he pursued the business of farming with great energy 
and success, which he found congenial to his taste and highly 
favorable to his health, which had been seriously threatened 
by a predisposition to pulmonary disease. Once, and only 
once, he consented to represent his county in the State Legis- 
lature. It is presumed he became disgusted with the obliqui- 
ties and follies of his colleagues and others at the capitol, as he 
would never consent to have his name used for that purpose 
again. God had more important work for him to do. It is be- 
lieved to have been in 1823 that Eev. Jabez P. Marshall, pastor 
of Union church, Warren county, of which Mr. Sanders was 
then a member, asked permission at one of the regular Confer- 



Billington M. Sanders. 315 

ences to offer a resolution which he had drawn up. Being ig- 
norant of its purport, Sanders, with others, encouraged the 
pastor to submit his resolution. When it was read, however, 
he dropped his head and burst into tears, as its object was 
to urge him forward to the work of the ministry, to which 
his brethren believed God had called him, and from which he 
had for many years drawn back. Now, however, he felt he 
could forbear no longer, and we soon find him proclaiming the 
glorious gospel to his fellow-men. At the special request of the 
Williams Creek church, he was ordained at Union church, in 
January, 1825, by Jesse Mercer, Malachi Eeeves, Joseph Eob- 
erts, John H. Walker, J. P. Marshall and Elisha Perry man. 
His ministry was devoted to the churches in that region until 
his removal to Penfield in 1832. 

The Georgia Baptist Convention, having determined, at their 
annual meeting in 1831, to establish a classical and theological 
seminary, the main object of which was the improvement of 
the rising ministry, an object dear to the heart of Sanders, he 
was invited to take charge of the infant enterprise. December 
of 1832, finds him at his post, and the second Monday in Jan- 
uary following, (1833) what is now Mercer University began 
operations as follows : "Two double log-cabins, with a garret 
to each, for dwelling, for dining-room, and for study, for both 
teachers and students." In those two log-cabins, with only 
one assistant and thirty-nine pupils, (seven having in view the 
ministry) did the indefatigable and energetic Sanders lay the 
foundations of Mercer Institute, in a few years to be known as 
Mercer University. (It was commenced and continued for 
several years as a manual labor school.) He was not merely 
the general superintendent of the seminary, but he was teacher, 
stew T ard and farmer. He had accounts to keep, buildings to erect, 
lands to clear and fence and cultivate, financial plans to evolve, 
discipline to administer, studies to review, an extensive corres- 
pondence to keep up, besides preaching to the churches around 
and attending to his own private and agricultural interests- 
For several years he allowed himself only five or six hours sleep 
daily. He proved himself to be the very man for the position, 
and in all his various duties, he sustained himself most success- 
fully. God smiled upon his self-denying endeavors, public favor 



316 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

was conciliated to the institution, the number of students in- 
creased, pecuniary aid flowed in, and precious revivals of religion 
were enjoyed from year to year. When the institution was 
elevated to the rank of a college, Sanders was elected as its 
first president, which position he accepted only on the condi- 
tion that the trustees would procure a successor at their earliest 
opportunity. A successor having been secured, he resigned at 
the close of 1839, having conducted the institution successfully 
through the first seven years of its existence. Though no longer 
the president, he continued in other relations his untiring efforts 
for its prosperity. He was about five years its treasurer, with- 
out compensation, a member of the board of trustees and sec- 
retary of that board up to the time of his decease. He did 
more to establish the University than any other individual. 

Let none suppose that he found an excuse for neglecting his 
duties as a minister of the gospel, in the fact of his being at 
the head of an important literary and theological institution. 
Far from it, for during his residence at Penfield, he managed to 
preach more than many younger men who had nothing to do 
but to preach. He was four years pastoral supply at Shiloh, 
ten years at G-reensborough, and one year at Griffin. For more 
than quarter of a century, he was a burning and a shining light 
in the Georgia Association, was its clerk for several years and 
for nine years its moderator. For many years he was more 
fully identified with all the important measures of the Georgia 
Baptist Convention, at least as to their practical execution, than 
any other man in the State. Was six years its moderator and 
was chairman of its executive committee for a series of years. 
He was also for a time editor of the Christian Index, was gen- 
erally a delegate to the Baptist Triennial Convention, until 
Southern Baptists withdrew from that body, and was then a 
delegate to the Southern Baptist Convention. But why par- 
ticularize further? It is sufficient to say there was no move- 
ment within his sphere, having in view the welfare of man and 
the glory of God, with which he did not identify himself and 
bring to its support all his influence and energy. 

From the foregoing imperfect outline, one would naturally 
infer that B. M. Sanders was no ordinary man. "Without con- 
ceding to him the attributes of genius, or extensive and pro- 



Billington M. Sanders, 317 

found scholarship, or the exactest refinement of manners, or a 
high reputation for remarkable sayings and striking isolated 
deeds, or even that nicely shaded perfection of christian char- 
acter which, in some rare instances, have adorned the history 
of Zion, he was nevertheless worthy of being regarded one of 
the most remarkable men that has ever lived and died in Geor- 
gia. His life exhibited a uniform and unbroken round of sacred 
devotion to principle— of self-sacrificing, useful deeds—of sin- 
cere, fervent, and unqestioned piety. Those who knew him 
longest and best generally valued him most. Some shine in 
the distance, but grow dim as you approach them : This was 
not the case with Sanders. A slight acquaintance would sig- 
nally fail to reveal his true worth. It was necessary to know 
him long and intimately in order to form a correct idea of his 
real character and of his great excellence. He possessed a 
strong, clear and active intellect, a large share of good com- 
mon sense, and a remarkable capacity for business. A christian 
brother who knew him well, said of him many 3-ears ago: "He 
is good at everything; he is a good preacher, a good pastor, a 
good teacher, a good farmer, a good carpenter, a good brick- 
mason — good at whatever he undertakes." He was a man of 
great punctuality in all his private and public duties; of much 
decision and of indomitable energy ; and was distinguished for 
great moral courage. He and Mercer were intimate personal 
friends, and there was no man for whose opinions he had a 
higher respect. Yet, on one memorable occasion he differed 
even with Mercer. It was in regard to the location of Mercer 
University. Mercer was in favor of Washington — Sanders of 
Penfield. The views of the latter at length prevailed, when 
Mercer, true to the instincts of his unselfish soul, finding his 
darling scheme overruled by his brethren, yielded with meek- 
ness and dignity, saying, "I cannot work alone; I must go 
with my brethren ; you may put me down for §5,000." And 
finally, as is well known, he gave the institution at Penfield 
the larger portion of his estate. 

Sanders was a man of pure and lofty aims. Says his friend, 
Major Joel Crawford, " Very few men have brought to the ser- 
vice of his day and generation better intents and purposes than 
Mr. Sanders; very few more efficiency, and, I may add, very 



318 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

few have had better success." He had no sinister and selfish 
purposes to hide beneath the cloak of fair pretensions. He was 
not a man of a double face and a double tongue. Uprightness 
and integrity walked with him arm in arm. He was emphati- 
cally an honest man — honest in his dealings, honest in his opin- 
ions, honest in his rebukes and commendations. True, he had 
his faults ; the faultless live in heaven. His, however, were 
not the faults of a sordid, groveling nature. They were such as 
we often see connected with ardent feelings and great energy 
and decision of character, and are by no means inconsistent 
with purity of aim and nobility of soul. He was sometimes 
irritable and impatient; sometimes he used expressions of need- 
less severity ; and sometimes he urged his views with a zeal 
bordering on pertinacity. But who would undertake to im- 
peach his integrity ? Whatever his faults may have been, how 
light they all appear when contrasted with his honesty, his 
piety, his energy, and his abundant labors. The sick, the 
widow, the fatherless, engaged his active sympathies. During 
his whole christian life, especially the last twenty years of it, 
he seemed to make, as it were, but one contribution to the 
cause of human happiness — and that was himself. 

Let us pass on to the closing scene. On the 19th of June, 
1851. he had an attack of vertigo, which was followed by a 
general and permanent prostration of his system. He had been 
feeble previous to this, but it was now evident that the brisk, 
elastic energy of his system which had borne him through so 
many toils and held in eheck for many years his constitutional 
tendency to consumption had given way, never effectually to 
react. For four months before his death he was confined to his 
bed, and for several weeks was unable to turn himself. In the 
meantime he was reduced to a state of great emaciation. But 
his mind retained to the last its usual clearness. He was uni- 
formly composed and cheerful, but had no raptures. To visit- 
ing friends he expressed great confidence in God, quoting pas- 
sages like this : " Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him." 
Shortly before he expired, fearing he had been too anxious to 
depart, he said to his friends: "I have sinned — pray that I 
may be pardoned." Among his last expressions was: "Though 
I walk through the valley," etc. He died on the 12th of 3Iarch, 



James Reeves. 319 

1852, in the sixty-fifth year of his age, and was buried in the 
grave-yard at Penfield. 

JAMES EEEVES. 

The subject of this imperfect sketch, was the son of a Bap- 
tist minister, Jeremiah Eeeves, of North Carolina, who removed 
to Georgia and settled in Wilkes county. He had four sons, all 
of whom became Baptist preachers, Malachi, Jeremiah, (whose 
history also occurs in this volume,) John and James. The 
oldest, Malachi, was an eminently useful man in his day, and 
was contemporary with Jesse Mercer, Thomas Ehodes, and 
other distinguished characters. John was still living at last 
accounts, a very old man. He has been quite useful in his 
day. 

James Beeves was born in Wilkes county, where he was 
brought up, and lived successively in Jasper, Butts, and Troup. 
His last move was to Carrol county, where he died, April 6th, 
1858, in the seventy-fourth year of his age. When converted; 
and by whom baptized, the writer has not been able to ascer- 
tain. It is Believed he was about thirty when he commenced 
preaching, which was probably in Jasper county. He was 
twice married — first, to a Miss McElroy, and next to a Mrs. 
Phillips. He raised a large family of children, some of whom 
passed away to the better country in advance of their father, 
The characters of those who remain do no discredit to their 
parentage. 

He was a praying man. He was never known to omit family 
prayer, when it was possible to attend to it; and if practicable; 
all his family must participate. The writer remembers an an- 
ecdote told of him in the early settlement of Troup county. 
The neighbors were accustomed to assist one another in build- 
ing their log cabins, rolling logs, etc. Boards being in demand 
for covering a house, it was agreed that one party of men 
should meet at Mr. Eeeves' for early breakfast, and another 
party at one of his neighbors, and thence sally forth for the 
day's work. Whichever party should find a suitable board-tree 
first, was to commence operations, not waiting 'for the other. 
Those who met at Mr. Eeeves' were there by daylight, and 



320 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

were in a a great hurry to get to work early. But no matter 
what the hurry was, family worship must be attended to first. 
The good man produced his Bible, and went through this ser- 
vice with due solemnity. Breakfast over, he and his party 
were not long in finding several first rate board-trees, on which 
they went to work with a will. It was growing late when the 
other party made their appearance, rather crest-fallen. " They 
had started out very early, (they said,) had felled several trees, 
but they had labored in vain, not having succeeded in making 
a single good board." Mr. Beeves kindly replied, u I fear you 
did not take time to pray before starting." Which was true, 
though some of them were professors of religion. 

From his entrance into the ministry, he was ardently devo- 
ted to its sacred duties, and eminently successful in wining 
souls to Christ. He gloried in being a pioneer preacher, in search- 
ing out destitute fields, and in establishing and building up 
churches therein. It was this spirit that prompted him to 
leave his pleasant home in Jasper county, and settle for a time 
in Butts, which was then newly acquired territory. And then, 
when the tide of emigration swept still further westward, into 
Troup and adjoining counties, Mr. Beeves went forward with 
the emigrants, and with John Wood and other zealous and de- 
voted servants of Christ, planted the cross in what was then 
comparatively a wilderness. They preached in the log cabins 
of the new settlers, 'and under temporary arbors constructed for 
the purpose, supplied the people with Bibles and tracts, and 
established Sabbath schools and temperance societies. Some of 
the most flourshing churches now in Troup and adjoining coun- 
ties were organized by Beeves and his coadjutors. And all 
this work was done as a labor of love, for they had no hope or 
prospect of earthly reward. Their families were maintained 
by the labor of their own hands, or that of their servants, and 
they went forth, sowing the good seed of the kingdom, without 
cost to those who reaped the benefits thereof. It was the un- 
requited labors of such men that gave the Baptists the vantage 
ground in all that region. Let none imagine that this" work 
was accomplished without opposition. The " anti-mission war " 
was raged in those days with a bitterness of which the present 
generation have but a faint conception. Mr. Beeves was as 



James Reeves. 321 

firm as a rock and as bold as a lion in favor of the truth on 
this subject. Hence, he came in for his full share of persecu- 
tion and reproach. Though excedingly mild in spirit, and affa- 
ble in manner, his adversaries found him ever ready to "con- 
tend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints." 

Mr. Eeeves was a Bible preacher. He was frequently called a 
living concordance. His familiarity with the sacred oracles was 
doubtless the result of a habit which prevailed among the 
fathers of our Baptist Israel in Georgia, much more generally 
than among the preachers of this generation — the habit of daily 
reading and studying the Word. They read the Bible more than 
any other book. Indeed, many of them read scarce anything 
else. The consequences were, that their sermons abounded with 
scripture quotations and illustrations, they were more fully es- 
tablished in the doctrines of grace, and they preached with an 
unction which nothing but the word and spirit of God can impart. 

Our brother was remarkable for punctuality in all his engage- 
ments, whether secular or religious. No man enjoyed in a 
higher degree the confidence of those with whom he had deal- 
ings. When the time arrived for him to start off to his preach- 
ing appointments, neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet prevented 
his going. His benevolence knew no bounds. The poor he 
never turned away empty. If they had money to pay for pro- 
visions, they got them. If not, they got them any how. If 
there was not sufiicient for the rich and poor, he invariably 
gave the preference to the latter. 

Old age neither dampened the ardor nor restrained the zeal 
of Mr. Keeves in the great work to which he had so faithfully 
devoted his life. A friend, who visited him in March, 1858, says, 
in substance: " The time for his departure was drawing nigh. 
He was fully sensible of this, but talked as calmly about it as 
if he was going on a journey. His only desire to live longer 
was that he might preach the gospel. He manifested more con- 
cern for the conversion of his attending physician than for his 
own recovery. Throughout his sickness, he ceased not to ex- 
hort and counsel all who came about him, whether saints or 
sinners. Among his last words were, that, although he felt no 
great ecstacy in view of death, he had an abiding faith that all 
was well. As his last hour approached, he rose from his bed, 
21 



322 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

though greatly debilitated, and asked to be helped to a seat 
near the fire, so that he might have family prayer once more. 
Having requested a brother Burke, who was present, to take 
up and complete his prayer should his breath fail, he agonized 
long and fervently in that last offering which he made as priest 
of his household. It was noticed by his friends that he made 
most fervent appeals for his country — that country which was 
so soon to be deluged with blood. Having given all necessary 
directions about his temporal affairs, designated the text from 
which he wished brother Burke to deliver his funeral discourse, 
(2d Timothy, chapter iv. 6, 7 and 8 verses,) he calmly fell asleep 
in Jesus, and was gathered, 'as a shock of corn fully ripe,' into 
the garner of the Lord." The author has known but few as 
Kood men as James Beeves. 



JOSIAH S. LAW. 

Josiah Spry Law, son of Eev. Samuel Spry Law and Eebecca 
G., (Hughes,) his wife, was born in Sunbury, Georgia, on the 
5th of February, 1808, and there received a good classical edu- 
cation, principally under the instruction of the Eev. James 
Shannon. In 1827, that gentleman having removed to Augusta, 
at the solicitation of the Baptist church in that cit} T , and desir- 
ing an assistant in his school, offered the place to Mr. Law, who 
accepted it, and at the same time prosecuted his own studies. 
Here, during a revival of religion, he was converted and united 
himself with'the Baptist church. 

Up to this time, he had designed entering the profession of 
the law, to which his mind was peculiarly adapted, and in which 
he would, no doubt, have been distinguished. But God had 
other purposes for him, and his grace touched a chord in the 
bosom of his young servant that had never vibrated before. It 
was not long that he hesitated in regard to his duty. Surren- 
dering all his previous ambitious aims, he resolved to give him- 
self, without reserve, to whatever work the Master had called 
him. That work, he was persuaded, was the gospel ministry. 
Accordingly, with a view to prepare himself for it, he soon 
after entered the Theological Seminary, at Newton. Massachu- 
setts, where he took the usual course of three years, and grad- 



Josiah S. Laic. 323 

uated with credit. On his return home, he was called to the . 
care of the Sunbury church, aud was ordained in December, 
1830. (Eev. Charles B. Jones and J. H. Campbell were or- 
dained at the same time, and by the same ceremony.) 

In January, 1831, he entered upon his ministerial duties, 
which were discharged with so much zeal and ability that he 
at once won the confidence and affection of his brethren. In 
October, 1832, he accepted an invitation to take charge of the 
Baptist church at Macon; but, after remaining there a few 
months, he returned, in the spring of 1833, and resumed his 
connection with the Sunbury church. In 1835 he was called 
to the pastorate of the Baptist church in Savannah, and after 
spending a year with them, was again called back to his first 
charge, the Sunbury church; and, in consequence of the de- 
clining health of his father, he felt it his duty to return. In 
1840 he became the pastor of the North Newport church, in 
Liberty county. He was, also, for several years, pastor of the 
South Newport church, in Mcintosh county. 

The Baptists in Liberty county have at no time been very 
strong, except with the colored population, among whom they 
are the prevailing denomination. Of late years the number of 
white communicants has been greatly diminished by removal 
and death. Sunbury, where their chief strength lay, has been 
almost entirely forsaken. The dead who sleep in its quiet 
grave-yard, tind whose faces are not forgotten by the present 
generation, outnumber far its liviifg inhabitants. The old 
church is still there,* like a lonely sentinel amidst surrounding 
desolation. Faithful to its office, its old bell yet breaks the 
silence of the Sabbath morning to herald the coming of the 
missionary to the negroes, who, for convenience, meet there 
from different points in the neighborhood, and for whose sake 
a church organization is still preserved. North Newport has 
also suffered severely, but not to the same extent, from the 
same causes. Winn, and the elder Screven, and Dunham, and 
the elder Law, whose names are fragrant in the memory of 
Baptists, have years ago entered upon their rest. Those who 
succeeded them in the ministry have been called to other fields 
of labor in our own and in heathen lands. The excellent 
*It was burned to the ground by Federal soldiers during the late war. 



324 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

brother whoso career I have undertaken to trace, remained 
and toiled through all discouragements in a position that prom- 
ised but little reward beyond the consciousness of a faithful 
discharge of duty. 

Deeply concerned for the spiritual, welfare of the negroes 
from the commencement of his ministry, he had been accus- 
tomed to devote part of his time to their special benefit, and 
for several years previous to his death, the largest part of his 
services was given to them. He was successful in his labors 
among them, an evidence of which is found in the fact, that a 
short time previous to his fatal sickness, he baptized thrity- 
six, and had, at the time of his death, about sixty candidates 
for baptism. This was no unusual occurrence. E"or was it the 
result of excitement. They were well instructed and intelli- 
gent converts. It was his custom (as it is that of the Presby- 
terian brethren engaged in the same work in Liberty county) 
not only to preach to them, but also to teach them orally, old 
and young, upon every occasion, either before or after the ser- 
mon. He felt that the soul of the black man was as precious 
to the Saviour as that of the master, and every heart that 
loves Christ and the souls of men, can appreciate the interest 
for this class and sympathize in the reluctance with which' he 
would contemplate a removal from his charge, that would per- 
haps leave them without a shepherd and guide. His ambition 
was not for worldly distinction, but to do his Master's will, and 
to do it well. Had he sought distinction, it would not have 
been in vain. The positions he could have commanded would 
have opened to him a field in which he could have gratified 
such a desire, had he cherished it. A few years before his 
death, he was elected professor in the theological department 
of Mercer University, but preferring the more immediate duties 
of the ministry, he declined. 

He continued in the field of his early labors until attacked 
by a malignant disease, to which he was much exposed in at- 
tendance upon sick and dying friends, and which terminated 
his life while he was yet in the vigor of manhood, on the 5th 
of October, 1853. From the commencement of his illness his 
sufferings were great — so great that he was unable to converse; 
and, though sometimes bewildered, he was frequently heard to 



, Josiah S. Laic. 325 

say, "Thy will, O Lord, not mine, be done!" and to repeat 
some passage of scripture suited to himself and his sorrowing 
family. His last words were two verses of that beautiful hymn 
commencing — ■ 

" There is a land of pure delight." 

It is no unmerited eulogy to say, that the subject of this 
notice, in intellectual endowments, in devotion to his high call- 
ing, in earnest eloquence, and in fidelity to his office, occupied 
a very high rank in his profession. Endowed with talents that 
might have qualified him for any station, he knew no ambition 
but to serve God acceptably; he coveted no honor but that of 
being "found in Christ." The bouyancy of his spirits and the 
warmth of his heart, his frankness and the high tone of feeling 
which gave a beautiful finish to his character, rendered him a 
fascinating companion and a valued friend, while his integrity 
and manly independence secured the respect of all. His wit 
and genial humor in social intercourse made him highly at- 
tractive to all classes, and especially to the young, over whom 
his influence was happily exerted. Social in his feelings, he 
did not seclude himself in -cold isolation from the world around 
him; but having a heart that could participate in the happiness 
and sympathize in the sorrows of others, he gave freedom to 
the noblest emotions of the soul, and endeared himself to his 
friends by identifying himself with them in every scene of life. 
His attachments were strong, and he made no professions of 
regard but such as were the spontaneous breathings of a warm 
and generous heart. No man had warmer friends, and no one 
was worthier of them. 

As a preacher, he was nice in his discriminations, unfolding 
the doctrines of the gospel with clearness, and applying them 
with great power to the practical duties of life. Independent 
in thought, and bold in declaring what he believed to be the 
truth, his sermons were rich in matter, logical, and habitually 
instructive. His preparations for the pulpit were thorough, 
and when he entered the sanctuary, it was with beaten oil. 
Ardent in feeling, his eloquence was often highly impassioned, 
and his whole manner was well fitted to give effect to his dis- 
courses. His last sermon, which was preached the day on 
which he was attacked by the malady that terminated his life, 



326 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

is said to have been characterized by remarkable unction and 
impressiveness. "Christ crucified" was always the burden of 
his preaching, as it was the ground of his hope. 

Mr. Law was rather below the medium height, well formed, 
and of agreeable personal appearance. A free, open counte- 
nance, sparkling brown eyes, and a head of fine intellectual 
development, were expressive of frankness, vivacity and intel- 
ligence. His physical, intellectual and moral man were in ad- 
mirable harmony. 

Mr. Law was married on the 13th of January, 1831, to Ellen 
S. Barrett, of Augusta, Georgia. This estimable lady, with ten 
children — nine sons and a daughter — survived him. His oldest 
son had just entered the profession of medicine, and the next 
that of law, at the time of his death. He was very happy in 
his domestic relations, and proved to the wife of his youth a 
devoted husband. Practically a stranger to austerity, his chil- 
dren were encouraged to be open and frank in his presence. At 
the same time he held them under all needful restraint, thus 
blending, in his intercourse with them, the freedom of compan- 
ionship with the authority of " one that ruleth well his own 
house." 

His servants were brought under the same rule of kindness 
and decision by which he controlled his children. His interest 
in this class of our Southern population I have already referred 
to, but it may not be out of place here to remark that he was, 
in turn, greatly loved by them, and little is hazarded in saying 
that, in all our broad domain, no servant of Jesus is more sa- 
credly enshrined in the hearts of the grateful children of Africa, 
who received the gospel from his lips, and to whose spiritual 
good his life was consecrated. 

HENEY OTIS WYER. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Beverly, Massachu- 
setts. 19 th March, 1802. His early advantages were limited, 
but by industry and application, he prepared himself to enter 
TTaterville College, Maine, about his eighteenth year. Few 
men were blessed with a better mother. She possessed high 
intellectual culture, and was eminently pious. The cherished 



Henry Otis Wyer, 327 

desire of her heart was to see her eldest son a minister. G-od 
heard her prayers and answered her request. Soon after his 
conversion and entrance upon college, his mother removed to 
Alexandria, Yirginia, where she remained until her death. On 
her return there he left Waterville, and entered Columbian Col- 
lege, District of Columbia, where he continued his studies for 
two or three years. His ministry commenced soon after his 
conversion. When but a mere boy, he entered upon the great 
work of preaching Christ to sinners, and continued to love and 
labor for souls as long as he lived. 

After leaving college he returned North, where he spent a 
few months in preaching to destitute churches. About the 
year 1824, he received an appointment to labor as a city mis- 
sionary in Savannah, Georgia. The Baptist church at that 
time was without a pastor, the members few and feeble, the 
cause languishing and almost dead. That eminently good and 
pious man, Josiah Penfield, then the most useful and influen- 
tial member in the church, soon heard of him, and of his mis- 
sion to the city. Attracted by his piety, his zeal, his talents, 
the church soon called him to become their pastor. Though 
young and inexperienced, he entered with zeal and energy upon 
this important field of labor. He was ordained pastor of the 
church during that year, by the late Rev. W. T. Brantly, who 
was then pastor of the church in Augusta, and the Rev. James 
Shannon, then of Liberty county. About two years after his or- 
dination he was married to Miss Mary S. Hartstene, of Savannah, 
who, from her youth, was admired for her grace of maimers, in- 
telligence of mind, excellent discretion, and cheerful piety. She 
survived her husband nine years. On the 21st March, 1866, 
she passed from earth to join him in the rest above. Two chil- 
dren only were the fruit of their marriage, the younger son — 
a physician of great promise and usefulness — sleeps beside his 
parents ; the elder still survives, and is a minister of the gos- 
pel in Yirginia. He remained pastor of the church about ten 
years, when his health failed through the excessive labors con- 
sequent upon a succession of revivals with which his ministry 
was attended. During these years he toiled incessantly, his 
time, talents and energies were taxed to their utmost. What- 
ever he attempted he did with all his might. Besides the three 



328 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

regular services of the Sabbath — -which was the custom at that 
time — he often had two, aud frequently three, during the week. 
Hundreds were converted under his ministry, the church was 
revived and built up, and the Baptist cause greatly advanced. 
Nor during that period were his labors confined to his own 
church and people, but the adjacent churches in Georgia and 
South Carolina were often visited by him, and were, through 
his instrumentality, blessed with gracious seasons of refreshing- 
Several precious revivals occurred at Beaufort, South Carolina, 
under his ministry. Among the number baptized there was 
Eev. Dr. E. Fuller, between whom and himself there continued 
to exist a strong and devoted attachment during his whole 
life. In Georgia such men as Lathrop, DeYotie, D. G. Daniell, 
and many others who are now among the most prominent and 
useful ministers in the denomination, were converted through 
his instrumentality and baptized by him. He loved above 
everything else to be in a revival. Those who have been with 
him on such occasions, can appreciate his special adaptedness 
for such work. His last letter ever written to his son, ex- 
presses his feelings on this subject. We extract the following 
sentences: "The happiest period of my life was when hard 
at work in the ministry. It is a great and good work, and 
must tell upon the destinies of eternity. Take heed unto thy- 
self, I. Timothy, iv. 16. A personal influence is all-important. 
Seek to move the conscience, the affections, the moral man, in 
preaching, in conversation, in prayers, in everthing." 

"When the Rev. J. G. Biuney resigned the church to go to 
Burmah, he was re-elected pastor, but he consented to take the 
church only for the year, that he might relieve, the building 
from the encumbrance of a heavy debt. His object accomplish- 
ed he retired ; but on the division of the church a year or two 
afterwards, when the second Baptist church was constituted, 
he became its pastor. His health did not permit him to labor 
long in this capacity. . He was succeeded after two years, by 
Eev. J. P. Tustin, but never afterwards assumed the regular 
pastoral care of a church, though he frequently supplied desti- 
tute churches in various portions of the country, and endeav- 
ored to preach every Sabbath when his health would permit it. 

•As a preacher, he had few-equals. The pulpit was the throne 



Henry Otis Wyer. 329 

of his strength. He was emphatically a christian preacher, and 
in his eye all truth arranged itself around the cross of Christ. 
His characteristics were clearness, unction and force. He never 
prostituted the pulpit to purposes of mere rhetorical display 
and intellectual entertainment. Convinced himself, he sought 
to convince others. Relying on G-od, he believed that the truth 
was capable of being so exhibited as to commend itself to every 
man's conscience. Studying that truth himself, and feeling its 
adaptation to his own intellect and heart, his presentations of 
truth was such as to impress the minds of his hearers with the 
belief that his heart was deeply imbued with its Spirit. He 
felt that no man could preach who did not himself perceive the 
glory of Christ, and know experimentally the preciousness of 
Christ. There was in his preaching an unction, a pathos and 
an eloquence that we have rarely seen equalled in any other 
speaker. His fine person, flashing eye and sonorous voice, com- 
bined with a comprehensive mind, a cultivated intellect and a 
sanctified heart, peculiarly fitted him for an effective preacher. 
His sermons were generally well prepared, but he rarely ever 
wrote them in full. He usually preached from notes, his 
thoughts came rapidly, his language was chaste, yet forcible, 
his imagination fervid, and he possessed a fluency that made 
him ready for any occasion. Many have regretted that some 
of his most effective sermons had not been written out But 
after all, the written sermons of a minister are a poor exponent 
of his influence. However elaborate their construction and 
finished their style, they are but the residuum of a sparkling 
cup. Those who read what they once heard invariably confess 
to a feeling of disappointment, and can with difficulty be per- 
suaded that the sentences over which their eye passes so lan- 
guidly on the printed page are the very same which, upon the 
delivery from the pulpit, fresh from the heart and lips of their 
authors, were as a chariot of fire to the devout auditor. "Id. 
fact, every attempt to present on paper the splendid effects of im- 
passioned eloquence, is like gathering dew drops, which appear 
jewels and pearls on the grass, but run to water in the hand, 
the essence and the elements remain, but the grace, the sparkle 
and the form are gone." 

The following was written by Dr. "W. T. Brantly a short time 



330 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

after his death : "As a pulpit orator, our departed brother, when 
in health, had very few superiors in this countiy. Ho had a 
fine presence, and when his sonorous voice and piercing eye 
were animated by a soul filled with love to Christ, and yearning 
for the conversion of sinners, he spoke with the most thrilling 
effect. Who that heard him preach for upwards of two hours 
at the Georgia Baptist Convention, in Madison, about fourteen 
years ago, will ever forget that sermon? Who grew weary 
under that protracted discourse? During the remarkable revi- 
val which took place in Charleston, in 1846, he and Kev. Eich- 
ard Fuller frequently spoke on the same occasion. After Dr. 
Fuller had preached for more than an hour and wrought the 
audience to a degree of feeling which was intense, I have seen 
brother Wyer rise and with appeals almost electric, swell the 
feeling into deeper emotion and retain the multitude in. profound 
attention to a late hour of the night. A beautiful feature in our 
beloved brother's character was his humility. He never seemed 
to be conscious of his great power, and shrank from anything 
like notoriety. He was willing to work in the most obscure 
positions, and always rejoiced when his ministering breth- 
ren were assigned places of distinction, His genial disposition 
made him a universal favorite in society, whilst his intelligent 
conversation and refined manners gave him access to the best 
circles in our country." 

An incident was related to the writer a few years ago by Dr. 
W. F. Broaddus, of Virginia, illustrative of his great power in 
exhortation : Dr. Broaddus and himself were conducting a 
protracted meeting many years ago at Culpepper Court-house. 
There was then no Baptist church in the place, and the services 
were held in the court-house. The meetings became deeply 
solemn, and many were inquiring what they must do to be 
saved ? In the village was a gentleman of standing and influ- 
ence who was a professed infidel. His wife was a truly pious 
woman and a Baptist. She tried to persuade her husband to 
attend the meetings, but he continued to refuse. One night he 
was led by the spirit of G-od to the meeting. He did not ven- 
ture in, but stood at the door. The speaker was delivering one 
of his most effective exhortations. The man was attracted by 
his voice, his manner, his soul-stirring appeals. He entered 



Henry Otis Wyer. 331 

the room. As the speaker proceeded in his exhortation he ad- 
vanced up the aisle nearer and still nearer, until at last he fell 
down, amid tears and sobs, and cried to God for mercy. 

The following touching and truthful tribute to his memory 
was written by Rev. Dr. Fuller, of Baltimore : " The papers 
have lately announced the departure of this minister of Christ, 
and the news will afflict many churches and many hearts in 
our country.. It was not long after he came to the South, 
when the writer of this notice entered a church almost casually. 
In the pulpit was a man, still young, with a very striking ap- 
pearance, with a musical, sonorous voice, and whose gesture 
was graceful and commanding. These accomplishments were, 
however, soon forgotten, and the attention of the entire aud- 
ience riveted by the earnestness and pathos with which the 
speaker enforced the simple but sublime truths of the gospel. 
Although utterly careless, I could but be impressed as he urged 
" the one thing needful " for man's peace and happiness and 
salvation. " Who is this?" "The Rev. Mr. Wyer, pastor of 
Savannah Baptist church." I lost sight of him for some years, 
but we were destined to meet again, and often to share the 
toils and cares and successes and sorrows of the ministry. I 
remember, as it were yesterday, the calm sweet morning when 
he led me down into the water and baptized me into that name 
so precious to us both. Scene after scene rises to my memory 
when we knelt together, and from one closet went forth to 
preach Jesus to the great congregation, and to triumph together 
in seeing the salvation of the gospel breaking forth on the 
right hand and on the left. For him, ail this has ceased. In- 
deed, for many years his impaired health compelled him to re- 
linquish the occupation so dear to his heart. He had to resign 
his pastorship, and, with Rutherford, to " mourn over his dumb 
Sabbaths." He has finished his course. "What anxieties, what 
cares, what griefs, what joys, what fears, what labors, what 
tears and groans, what hopes and disappointments, are crowded 
into the life of a faithful minister of the gospel I He knew all 
these, but now he knows them no more. He has passed from 
them to the peace and purity and rapture — the wreaths and 
the robes of the victor — to the crown of righteousness, which 



332 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to them who fight the 
good fight of faith and are faithful unto death." 

As I have already said, Mr. Wycr was endowed with rare 
personal advantages for the work of the ministry. His fluency 
was uncommon ; indeed, it was to him (as it is too often to 
those who possess the faculty,) a snare. And yet, what a gift 
when he had prepared himself by study! In what burning ac- 
cents — with what a flood of eloquence could he pour out all his 
thoughts ! His mind was strong, vigorous, comprehensive ; his 
imagination lively and fertile. But the secret of his pulpit 
power was in his heart. There the truest, warmest, most ten- 
der and noblest elements found their congenial abode. JSTapo- 
leon said that he " governed men by fear, and that men could 
be governed only by fear." How different is the wisdom of the 
gospel, and how much truer its philosophy, which teaches us 
that love is, and must be, (the power is, indeed, the wisdom 
and power of God,) where such a being as man is to be con- 
trolled. In the character of our deceased brother, love was 
the all-pervading, all-constraining element. In all his official 
life — as a preacher and pastor — in the desk, in the parlor, in 
the sick chamber, he was all tenderness and gentleness and af- 
fection— " the love of Christ constraining him." 

"In social intercourse he was the same sincere, disinterested, 
benevolent man. Ever scrupulously just in his dealings, ever 
courteous in his manners, and ever faithful in his friendships, 
lie has left a reputation unsullied by a single stain, a name 
which no human being can mention # with unkindness, and a 
memory enshrined in the hearts of thousands who loved him. 
It was especially in his family that all the virtues and amia- 
bilities of his character were unfolded. But within those hal- 
lowed precints others must not intrude. 

"The griefs and consolations of the house of mourning are 
sacred. Strangers, not even friends, may mingle with them. 
To lose such a husband and father must be an irreparable be- 
reavement. But the hand which hath chastened can wipe 
away all tears. And the prayers offered, night and day, by 
him whose form they will see no more, whose voice they will 
hear no more, those prayers will now return in consolations 
a,nd blessings which can cause the soul, in its bitterest affliction, 



ElisJia Ferryman. 333 

to exchange 'beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and 
th'e garments of praise for the spirit of heaviness.' " 

In April, 1857, he left Savannah in his usual health and 
joined his family, then in Alexandria, Virginia. The Sabbath 
preceding the attack of pneumonia which terminated his life, 
he repaired to the church for the blacks and preached to them 
in the morning and afternoon. During the second service the 
house was very warm, and the doors being opened near the 
pulpit, he stood in a current of air, and thus in all probability 
contracted the disease which resulted in death a few days after- 
wards. His last text was from John iii. 14 and 15. Preaching 
Christ was his last public service on earth. "When smitten by 
disease, he manifested not the slightest anxiety to recover. 
The Saviour whom he had served was his hope, and his spirit 
was serene. The day previous to his death he said to one sit- 
ting by him, "I have run the race, I have fought the battle ; 
henceforth there is laid up for me a crown." And to his son, a 
short time before he expired, in answer to the question, " Is it 
all well with you now ?" he said, " Not a doubt — not a doubt — 
all clear." On the morning cf May 8th, 1857, in the fifty-fifth 
year of his age, he passed from earth to his reward in heaven. 
His funeral was attended from the Baptist church on the fol- 
lowing day. There, in front of the pulpit, lay the calm re- 
mains of the faithful minister of Christ, who had been brought 
to the house of God for the last time, to address his brethren 
and friends in speechless tenderness. A hymn was sung, prayer 
was offered, some words pf consolation uttered, and devout men 
bore him to his burial. The earl3 r spring blossoms were open- 
ing and falling as he was laid in the sacred spot selected in the 
Ivy Hill Cemetery, near Alexandria. Upon the marble slab 
that marks his resting place is the simple inscription : "And 
now my witness is in heaven and my record is on high." 

ELISHA PEJRKYMAK 

From a brief sketch of the " Life and Adventures of Elisha 
Ferryman, " published by himself in 1856, the following ex- 
tracts are taken, which, it is believed, will give a more correct 
idea of his character than anything the author could prepare. 



3 34 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

lie says " I was born on the 6th clay of February, 1769, in 
Halifax county, Virginia. My ancestors came from Wales; the 
time of their emigration to this country 1 do not know. My 
father and mother were both natives of Yirinnia — the former 
was born in Prince Edward ; the latter, in Caroline county. 
They, as well as my grand-parents, so far as I know, were 
plain, homespun, old fashioned, orthodox, predestinarian Bap- 
tists; so you see I am but a chip of the old block. My father 
lived, at the time of my birth, on. Win's creek near Dan river. 
Like all true- lovers of their country, he was much engaged in 
the revolutionary war. Besides other engagements, he was 
present at the battle of G-uilford Court-house. In that battle, 
he was captain of a volunteer company that he himself raised. 
In common with all others, father's family suffered much from 
the British about this time. When Cornwallishad got through 
pursuing General Greene, he took up his camp within six miles 
of our house, so that we were just at the mercy of these wicked 
people. While there, his troops ravaged the country, I reckon, 
for ten miles around, carrying off whatever they wanted, and 
destroying a great deal that they did not want. They broke 
us up entirely. They ate up our cattle, hogs, corn, fodder and 
everything of the kind. Tarleton's horse company carried off 
three or four stacks of our oats at one time. They broke us 
up there so completely that we moved away next spring and 
came to Georgia. After we got to this State we settled down 
on Big Kiokee creek, in Richmond county, about twenty-two 
miles above Augusta, and one mile frojn where Columbia Court- 
house now stands. Some years after this, parts of Richmond 
and Wilkes were taken, out of which a new county was made,- 
called Columbia." 

He gives an interesting account of an expedition against the 
Indians between the Ogeechee and Oconee rivers, in which he 
was engaged as a soldier; of his marriage, and then proceeds : 
" For several years after my marriage my feelings in respect to 
religion were not much excited. Sometimes I would become 
troubled because of my sins ; but these troubles would soon 
wear off. So things went on until the year 1792 ; this year I 
got greatly stirred up in view of my sinfulness. Being very 
uneasy about my case, and being in great want of knowledge, 



Elisha Perry man. 335 

I concluded to invite ministers to come and preach at my house, 
that I might gain some instruction. Among others, several 
Methodist ministers used to hold meetings with me for myself 
and neighbors. I heard them quite often, and liked them very 
much, for all sorts of preachers could teach me about that time, 
I was very ignorant as to my soul, and did not know how to 
get rid of my sins ; as a heavy burden, they were too heavy for 
me, and seemed about to crush me to the earth. My trouble 
was very great, and instead of getting clear of it, it appeared 
to grow worse and worse, until the year 1798. This year, my 
health becoming feeble, I went to some Warm Springs in North 
Carolina, to see if they would do me any good. While there, 
I heard a man from Tennessee. His preaching affected me very 
much, and I was made to reflect still more on my case, and to 
cry to the Lord for mercy. I got so bad off on account of my 
sins, that when I came back home, I became a close attendant 
on preaching. Instead of getting better, I got worse ; so I 
thought I would go with Marshall every Saturday and Sunday 
to his meeting to see if I could find some relief. But no, there 
was no help for poor me; I got worse and worse ; so I fell into 
a great despair, and thought the Lord would never pardon me, 
but that I must die in my sins and be forever lost. I became 
so much troubled that I could not relish my daily food. I could 
not rest day nor night ; sleep went form my eyes, and slumber 
from mine eye-lids. Thus I went on very much bowed down 
in soul, until the month of May, 1799. One morning in that 
beautiful month, I went out to ploughing very soon, telling my 
dear wife that I would not be home to breakfast that day. 
Everthing looked gloomy and desolate unto me, but yet I went 
on ploughing, meditating upon my sad condition and thinking 
what I must do to be saved. While I was thus in deep distress, 
all of a sudden, about the middle of the day, something like a 
flash of lightning, came all in me and around me; and I had 
such a view of the fullness and beauty of the Lord Jesus Christ, 
and of the worth of his pardoning love and mercy to a poor 
sinner like me, that I broke out into a great cry of joy and 
praise. 1 immediately took out my horse and went to the house 
as quick as I could, and told my dear wife what had happened un- 
to me. There was such a change in my heart, and all things wore 



336 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

such a beauty and light about me, that it appeared to me I was 
in a new world. It seemed to me too that I did not want to 
stay here any longer; so I put my horse into the stable, and 
ran like a deer down to Abram Marshall's, about three miles off, 
and told him how I had found the Lord in my corn-field, about 
middle-way of my corn row ; that he revealed himself to me as 
the Way, the Truth, and the Life, so that my soul was full of 
love and I wanted every body to know and feel as I did. Mar. 
shall seemed to be very glad and said to me, ' You must come 
and join the church.' But that was too much for me then, for 
before I got back home, my joy and love began to die away, so 
that I was afraid I might be mistaken. While thus troubled 
with doubts and fears, I went to Poplar Springs meeting-house, 
near Little River, where I heard a man by the name of James 
Landrews. His text was, ' We know that we have passed 
from death unto life, because we love the brethren.' AYhile he 
was preaching the love of God flowed into my heart so much 
that I thought I never would doubt any more, for I felt that I 
had the witness in my soul, because I loved the people of the 
Lord. I thought, therefore, if the preacher told the truth, I 
must be a converted man ; so I rejoiced in the Lord with great 
joy, and went back home in great hopes of my real conversion 
and acceptance with the blessed Saviour." 

On the third Sabbath in August, 1801, he was baptized by 
Abraham Marshall into the Kiokee church. His wife Avas re- 
ceived into the fellowship of the same church about six months 
thereafter. 

"In considering my condition after my baptism, I found my- 
self to be in great want of knowledge, both mental and spir- 
itual. My advantages in early life had been very poor, having 
gone to school only about two months. But having cast my 
lot in with God's children, I looked about to see in what way I 
could best serve my blessed Master. Finding that I was so 
very ignorant, I thought I had better begin with myself. Ac- 
cordingly, I worked hard in the day time to obtain a support 
for my family, and at night I would sit up- and read and study 
by pine-knot fires. In this way I improved myself a good deal. 
But I lacked spiritual knowledge very much also. To obtain 
this, I tried to attend all the meetings in reach of me. In order 



fflisha Perryman. 337 

to go to meeting on Saturday, I would labor very hard, so as to 
finish my week's work by Friday evening. Frequently I have 
had to walk to attend preaching. I have gone in this way as 
much as eight miles, and often as much as five and six. This, 
however, I did not mind. I wanted to know more about my 
blessed Saviour— more about that wonderful grace of God that 
saved a wretch like me — more about that rich and glorious in- 
heritance which awaits the saints in heaven. 

"I felt continually pressed in spirit to testify unto the peo- 
ple that Jesus Christ was the only name given under heaven, 
among men, whereby they could be saved. I wanted to tell 
them of their lost and undone condition in a state of nature — 
of that tremendous punishment which God would pour out 
upon the finally impenitent, and of that blessed and glorious 
way of escape which had been provided by the death of a cru- 
cified Eedeemer. Feeling this way, I commenced by holding 
prayer meetings about at different houses in the neighborhood, 
wherever I could collect the people together. In this manner, 
I spent a good deal of time, singing and praying with the peo- 
ple, exhorting christians to love and good works, and calling 
upon poor sinners to fly for their lives. In the meantime, I 
went about as much as I could with Jesse Mercer and Abraham 
Marshall to their meetings, in which way I learned a great deal 
in respect to the doctrines and truths of the Bible. The most 
of my knowledge of the teachings of the scriptures I got from 
the lips of these great and good men. Though not set apart 
by ordination to the full work of the ministry until several 
years after, I felt myself wholly given Up to this good cause. 
I did not think myself qualified for the duties of a pastor, and 
never have thought so; but still I was able to proclaim the 
good news of salvation through faith in the precious blood of 
Christ. Accordingly, I gave myself up to the work of an evan- 
gelist. I went throughout the country, singing and praying 
with the people, exhorting professors to walk worthy of their 
high vocation, and beseeching poor sinners to fly for refuge to 
the hope set before them in the gospel. I went, sometimes, to 
private houses, sometimes to the meetings of my brethren, and 
sometimes to destitute places, where the name of Christ was 
seldom or never heard. In this way, I humbly hope that I was 
22 



338 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

enabled to do, at least, some little good. We often had very 
interesting meetings. Sinners were made to weep because of 
their sins, and christians to rejoice in the glorious hope of the 
gospel of Christ. 

" In the early part of January, 1810, I moved into Warren 
county, and settled in the woods, on Briar creek, not far from 
Sweetwater meeting-house. Changing my home brought me 
into the neighborhood of some very destitute sections. In some 
of these places the people seemed to be in greater want of light 
and knowledge than any I had ever seen before. The preaching 
of the gospel was such a strange thing to many of them that 
they came out to meeting-finely. The good Lord was with me, 
and I would thunder the law down upon them with all my might 
and power. Many of them became alarmed, and seemed to 
think they ought to do better than they had before. I had no 
house to preach in for a great while, except when there would 
be meeting at private houses. Finally, however, there was a 
meeting-house built, and that, too, in one of the darkest corners 
in the county, and not long after a church was constituted. 
Thus these dark and heathenish places were cheered by the 
rays of the glorious sun of righteousness. But I did not con- 
fine my labors to one section of the country. As my custom 
had been, I went from place to place, wherever destitution 
abounded. I often went down through the counties of Mont- 
gomery, Emanuel, Tatnall and Bullock, and there, in those des- 
titute regions, lifted up the Saviour's banner and called upon 
poor sinners to ground the arms of their rebellion and come 
and gather around it. Sometimes I would make tours through 
.Richmond, Burke, Jefferson and Screven counties, mingling 
with my beloved brethren, and singing and praying with the 
people. Sometimes I would sally out into the counties north 
and west of me, sometimes into South Carolina, and all up and 
down the Savannah river. I often met with trials, crosses and 
privations ; but I tried to endure hardness as a good soldier of 
Jesus Christ, feeling, with the Apostle, that these light afflic- 
tions, which were to endure but for a moment, would work out 
for me a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. 

" While the war with England was going on, there were felt, 
in different parts of the country, several very severe earth- 



Vincent B. Thornton. 339 

quake shocks. Once, during this earthquake period, brother 
George Franklin and myself were conducting a meeting at the 
house of a man named Parker. The meeting lasted until late 
at night, and several of the congregation remained at the house 
as well as ourselves. Just as we had laid down, a,nd before the 
lights were out, the earth began to shake very powerfully, 
when some of the dear young people jumped out of their beds 
and ran, all in a tremble, to Franklin and myself, crying to us 
to pray for them. All over the country, all classes were very 
much alarmed, for they thought the day of judgment was at 
hand, and they were not prepared for it. A great revival took 
place not long after, and many that were converted dated their 
first impressions back to the earthquakes. 

" The Lord has blessed me with a strong constitution, for 
which I desire to be truly grateful. Though I am now press- 
ing hard upon four-score and ten years, and though I have en- 
dured many hardships and suffered many privations, and not- 
withstanding my once erect form is now bowed with the weight 
of years, I still possess much vivacity and vigor. I still meet 
with my brethren from year to year in their Associational and 
other meetings, and I still lift up my voice in calling upon poor 
sinners to fly from the wrath to come." 

" I hope soon to leave the cares and [sorrows of this un- 
friendly world ; I hope soon to cross the swelling waves of Jor- 
dan ; I hope soon to pass the pearly gates of the Xew Jerusa- 
lem," etc. 

In this strain the good old man closed his narrative. His 
hopes have been realized. The precise date of his death is un- 
known to the author. 



YINCENT E. THOENTON. 

Yincent Eedmon Thornton was born in the year 1806,, in the 
neighborhood of Bethesda meeting-house, Green county, Geor- 
gia. His father, Eedmon Thornton, was a member and a dea- 
con of Bethesda church, and was esteemed by his brethren 
and the community as a good man and worthy deacon. 

The neighborhood was at that time rude and unrefined, and, 
though he received from his father christian instruction, young 



340 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

Thornton grew up a rough and boisterous youth. After a pre- 
paratory course of instruction in the schools of the countiy, he 
was sent to Franklin college, at Athens, where, however, he 
did not more than complete the studies of the sophmore class. 
At college ho was not particularly studious, and his boisterous 
manner gave him a bad name. I have heard him, however, 
contradict the traditional reports that he had been habitually 
vicious or michievious. 

After leaving college he lived on the plantation with his father, 
except a few months which he spent in Greensborough read- 
ing medicine in the office of Dr. James Foster. But his tastes 
and habits equally disinclined him to a professional life, and he 
returned to the country, where he married and settled on a 
plantation. 

The year 1828 was distinguished in Georgia as a period of 
general revival; and the church at Bethesda, sharing largely 
in the gracious influences of the spirit, Yincent E. Thornton 
became a regenerated man, and, having related his experience 
to the church on the 19th of April, was baptized on the 18th 
of May of that year.* Notwithstanding his youth, he was 
almost immediately elected and ordained a deacon, and in the 
fall of the same year was sent as a delegate to the Georgia As- 
sociation. 

He was soon licensed to preach, and in the course of two or 
three years was ordained. Concerning his ordination, rather 
a singular story is told by Dr. Sherwood. A Presbytery was 
called by the Bethesda church to ordain Thornton and another 
young brother. When the Presbytery asssmbled, objection 
was made to the ordination of the former, because the brethren 
were afraid that he was too learned. There was certainly no 
ground for such an objection. But the ordination did not take 
place at the time first appointed, though I think the postpone- 
ment was for a different reason from that assigned by Dr. Sher- 
wood. The brother who was to be ordained with Thornton 

*On a baptismal occasion, during the revival that year, the pastor, Jonathan Davis, 
•was (without knowing it,) timed by a distinguished lawyer, a Presbyterian, according 
to whose watch over sixty were baptized by Davis in less than fifteen minutes. "At 
that rate the twelve apostles" — this was the comment of the jurist — " on the day of 
Pentecost, would have baptized the whole three thousand in a little over an hour; " 
and he went on his way unbaptized. 



Vincent JR. Thornton. 341 

had givep rise to some fear as to his fitness for the ministerial 
office, and it was thought best for all parties not to proceed until 
the matter was more fully decided. A few months afterwards 
Thornton was ordained, and I think the other never was. 

The revival spirit, of which mention has been made, contin- 
ued several years, and the ministers in that region of Georgia 
were indefatigable in labors. Thornton being young, zealous 
and in easy circumstances, and blessed with a wife who was 
anxious to assist him as much as possible in his ministerial du- 
ties, entered heartily into the work. His missionary journeys, 
then called " tours of preaching," were numerous, arduous and 
very successful. He delighted ever afterwards to talk of that 
period of toil and blessing. 

These were the forming years of his ministerial character, 
and his associations and labors at this time developed him into 
what he was in his riper years. He was much in company 
with Jesse Mercer, was a favorite of that great man, and learned 
much from him. Without any of the graces of oratory, as 
learned in the schools, Thornton was an orator by nature. He 
spoke with an ease which I have never seen surpassed. His 
voice was singularly melodious, and had great compass and 
power. He had the simplicity of a child, and his feelings were 
both ardent and tender. His fluency was so great that I never 
saw him at a loss for a word, and though his words appeared 
to be unstudied, they were selected so well that no study could 
have made a better choice. He was a man of few books, but 
first among them was the Bible, and next to it he prized and 
studied the works of Dr. Gill. As his heart fully receivecj the 
doctrines of grace, so he had a mind which was able clearly to 
unfold them. When in the proper frame, (for he was a man of 
impulse and variable temperament,) he gave those doctrines a 
form and breathed into them a spirit which showed them to be 
indeed a gospel of power and life. 

In one of the preaching tours to which I have referred, a 
member of the first church he visited, being pleased with his 
sermon, determined to go with him to his second appointment 
and return home the next day. But the second sermon pleased 
him more than the first, and he concluded to go on and see if 
the third would be as good. He decided it to be better, and 



342 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

ho determined to stick to the preacher to the end of»the trip, 
which extended to the borders of Alabama. He declared him- 
self richly paid for his trouble, and though at the end he could 
not tell which sermon excelled, he declared they were all best. 

He served a number of churches for a greater or less length 
of time. Of Smyrna he was pastor four years ; Eaytown, twen- 
two years, embracing very near the whole period of his minis- 
terial career ; Crawfordsville, six years ; Phillips' Mill, twelve 
years ; White Plains, three years ; Washington, five years ; 
Madison, ten years; Bethesda, seven years. I should have 
said pastor " so called" for all his labors were on the once-ov- 
twice-a-month schedule. 

The members of these churches always remembered his ser- 
vices with pleasure, and delighted to have a visit from him. 
Under his ministry revivals were frequent, and he was very 
successful in building up the churches to which he preached. 
Perhaps in Madison his labors were most successful in this re- 
spect. When he commenced preaching there, the church was 
small and feeble, and in the course of ten years they were able 
to support a settled pastor. When they reached that point he 
left them, because neither he nor his wife were willing to live 
in a town. 

While he was an earnest supporter of missions in general, he 
took especial interest in the missions to the Indians, and for 
several years acted as a voluntary and unpaid agent of the In- 
dian Mission Association, (afterwards merged in the Domestic 
Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.) 

As has been said, he was in easy circumstances, having in- 
herited a moderate competency from his fathe^r, which was 
increased by some property received with his wife. His churches 
generally paid him what w T as considered a liberal salary. In 
the management of his affairs he was economical and prudent, 
without being mean and niggardly. At his home he dispensed 
a liberal farmer-like hospitality, being always glad to receive his 
friends, and enjoying their society and conversation with rare 
zest. Bat he required a conformity to the usages of his house- 
hold, which to some was a serious impediment to the enjoyment 
of his hospitality. An instance may be stated in reference to that 
most excellent and distinguished brother, Dr. A. C. Dayton, au- 



Vincent E. Thornton. 343 

thor of Theodosi a Ernest, etc. The first time he visited Georgia, 
he came as a Bible agent. After spending a day or two at Pen- 
field, he was advised to go to Thornton's, who could give him 
full information in regard to the churches in Burke and Jef- 
ferson counties. Thornton received him gladly, and enjoyed his 
society. But at eight o'clock he had worship and went to bed, 
dismissing Dayton in about these words, "Brother Dayton, 
you can go to your room up stairs, where you shall have fire 
and* candles, but I always go to bed at eight." Theodosia went 
to his room well enough pleased with his part of the arrange- 
ment and sat up pretty late writing. What was his horror, 
however, to be disturbed next morning by a servant coming in 
at four o'clock to make a fire, summoning him to prayers and 
breakfast. About two months afterwards, having finished his 
tour in the lower counties, Dayton again visited Thornton, was 
again gladly welcomed and kindly entertained, and was once 
more sent to bed at eight o'clock and called up at four. That 
day, a little after sunrise, as good brother Davis, of Greens- 
boro', (whose house was a free Baptist hotel,) was going to 
breakfast, he heard a call at the gate. It was from Dr. Day- 
ton, who had come nine miles from Thornton on one of the 
coldest winter mornings. " Brother Dayton, I am glad to see 
you. Breakfast is just ready ; come in and eat with us." 
" Well," replied Dayton, " I ate breakfast last night at brother 
Thornton's, but I'll take a little more, as it's morning now." 
Dayton never went to Thornton's again, though the latter 
never knew that it was his anti-lucan repast that drove him off. 
Thornton's health was usually good, even to robustness. In 
person, he was rather below the ordinary height, stout and 
built for strength, and he early became corpulent. In Novem- 
ber, 1854, he had a paralytic stroke, which attacked him soon 
after preaching at White Plains. From this attack he never 
fully recovered. Though he soon got able to go about, he never 
regained his former distinct utterance, and never more under- 
took to preach. He continued, however, to labor in the Mas- 
ter's cause, and became the faithful, zealous and efficient super- 
intendent of the Sunday-school at Phillips' Mill, where he had 
been the revered and eloquent pastor. It was a most affecting 
sight to see the profound preacher, upon whose lips large con- 



344 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

gregations had so often hung, now devoting himself, with pain- 
fal and labored and often indistinct articulation, to the instruc- 
tion of children. Yet, even thus, he was doing good and mag- 
nifying his office. Stricken and afflicted as he was, he was more 
deeply seated in the affections of his brethren than when he 
preached with the greatest power. There was a pathos in his 
broken utterance and an eloquence in his tottering form that 
was never felt when his words flowed most sweetly, and his per- 
son swelled with the majesty of his sublimest conceptions.* 

A second paralytic stroke in April, 1856, closed his useful life. 
He died the day after the attack, without having been able to 
speak. Once he tried to say something to his wife, but failed. 
A pencil was put in his hand, but he could not use it, and the 
dying thought is known only to God. Was it a farewell token 
of affection to those he loved so well ? Was it a last testimo- 
nial to that sovereign grace, whose fullness he was so soon to 
enjoy ? For months he had known that his life hung by a 
thread, and, expecting that his death would be sudden, he lived 
daily watching for the Master's call.f I saw him twice within a 
short time before his death, and on both occasions he requested 
me to preach at his funeral, and made known to me the text he 
desired me to use. It was characteristic both of his theology 
and his experience : " I know whom I have believed, and am 
persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed 
unto him against that day :" 2d Timothy, i. 12. He directed 
his grave to be covered by a plain slab, inscribed only with his 
name and the simple expression of his confidence in Him whom 
he believed: u I shall rise again." 

At the next session of the Georgia Association the following 
mention was made of him by the committee on deceased min- 
isters, the report being written by H. H. Tucker, D. D., then 
President of Mercer University : " Endowed by nature with a 
mind of remarkable power, he had enriched it with large stores 
of that knowledge which is above all knowledge most useful 
to a preacher of the gospel. If his intellectual endowments 

*The last time lie met with the Board of Trustees of Mercer University will never 
be forgotten by those who were present. As he entered the room, the members simul- 
taneously rose'to their feet and pressed around him, endeavoring in vain to restrain 
their tears. It was the last time some of us ever saw him.— [Author. 
tRev. N. M. Crawford. 



Vincent R. Thornton. 345 

were not varied, they were certainly profound. Some one has 
remarked, that ' a man of one book is always to be dreaded.' 
If thorough acquaintance with a human production so arms a 
man for the conflicts of life, what must be the power of him 
whose one book is the Bible ? Brother Thornton was emphat- 
ically a man of the Bible. Few other books claimed his atten- 
tention ; yet he had one other favorite. The writings of the 
learned John Gill were his constant study. Perhaps few men 
have ever made themselves so thoroughly familiar with the vol- 
uminous works of that author as the subject of this notice. As 
might be inferred from what has just been~ stated, brother 
Thornton was a zealous advocate of the precious doctrines of 
grace. There are those who love these doctrines, but who 
preach them in a form half disguised, as if to apologize for 
what some are pleased to call their severity. Brother Thorn- 
ton preached them boldly. The most startling issues to which 
they give rise he did not avoid, nor half avoid, but stated them 
fully and fearlessly, and met them with surprising ability and 
ease. Perhaps the most remarkable feature in his preaching 
was the apparently effortless manner in which he explained and 
defended, with irresistible argument, the great doctrines of the 
cross. He has gone to his reward, but we dare to believe that 
he has not changed his theology. Grace was his theme while 
among us, and grace is his theme now that he is among the 
angels." Fine as this eulogy is, its best quality is its truth. 

If Thornton had always, or generally, been in private what 
he so generally was in the pulpit, it would have been impossible 
to overstate his power for good ; but, unfortunately, he was 
not so. His character was not rowid, but full of points, and, 
unhappily, evil was often prominent. As before said, he was 
often rude and coarse, frequently light, and sometimes petu- 
lant. He was firm even to obstinacy, and sometimes exhibited 
this disposition on light and improper occasions. Mr. Mercer 
was, perhaps, the originator of a saying which became prover- 
bial. On one occasion, when Thornton had announced his posi- 
tion, (an unwelcome one to some of the brethren, who wished 
to remonstrate with him,) Mr. Mercer overruled them, and said, 
" Brother Vince has got his mule in him, and it is not worth while 
to say anything to him." But, after all, from an intimate ac- 



346 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

quaintance with the men, I am convinced that Thornton was not 
a whit more obstinate than several of his compeers, who escaped 
the reproval, and frequently joined with others in speaking of 
" brother Vincc's mule." They had more of the suaviter in modo, 
but just as immovable in fixedness of purpose. Yet, with all 
his foibles, faults and eccentricities, every one had confidence 
in Thornton's piety, and was willing to make allowance for the 
perversities of his nature and the defects of his training ; for, 
through all was seen the depth of that work of grace which so 
often and so richly cropped out above the defects of his earthly 
nature. 

I have spoken of his occasional coarseness, yet I have seen 
him frequently in the presence of ladies, and never have I' ob- 
served in him, at such times, any deportment unbecoming a 
gentleman in the most refined society. Mingled with his other 
elements, he had a native regard for the feelings of others, 
which led him to avoid what he believed would be offensive. I 
have never known a man in whom so many opposite qualities 
contended for mastery. 

It is said that, to find out a man's true character, you should 
travel with him. If this is true, Thornton stood the test ad- 
mirably. I took several journeys with him, both in public and 
private conveyances, and I never traveled with a more pleasant 
companion. He was always willing to conform to the wishes 
of his fellow-travelers, and if, at any time, he had a preference, 
after stating the grounds of it, he would leave the decision to 
the others. He had an unfailing fund of anecdote, grave and 
gay, pathetic and humorous, to beguile the tedium of the road, 
and not unfrequently the full gushes of his deep religious expe- 
rience would enrich the hearer. 

A few personal reminiscences and anecdotes may be of use in 
illustrating his many-sided character : 

"I saw, for the first time, Yince Thornton, (as he was then 
called, and continued familiarly to be called to the day of his 
death) when he was in college in 1822. I was then but eleven 
years old, and being timid and shy, was very unfavorably im- 
pressed by his rude and boisterous sporting. I did not See him 
again till the summer of 1843, two months after I united with 
the church at Antioch, in Oglethorpe county. A general meet- 



Vincent R. Thornton. 347 

ing brought Thornton there. I was very powerfully attracted 
by the excellence of his sermons. From that time our inter- 
course was frequent and our friendship uninterrupted. At that 
meeting an incident occurred illustrating one of his peculiar 
traits. One day, Jonathan Davis, then in the zenith of his 
power and popularity, had preached a most impressive sermon 
on the text, ' Knowing the terror of the Lord, we persuade 
men.' After that sermon, the pastor, B. M. Sanders, exhorted 
and invited mourners to come forward. Thirty or forty pre- 
sented themselves. Eecess was taken for dinner, and Thornton 
was appointed to preach in the afternoon. He tried to beg off, ■ 
but of course Sanders held him to the appointment. He took 
for his text, ' Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's 
elect ?' His first words were, " God has an elect people," and 
then went on to preach on the doctrine of election, a sermon, as 
I thought, of unsurpassed ability. At its conclusion, brother 
Sanders exhorted again, but it required much effort to get only 
five or six to come forward. As Thornton came out of the 
church, he said to a friend, ' I told you how it would be ; I 
knew I would put out all of Jonathan's fire.' In fact we had 
reason to believe that he selected his theme because he suspec- 
ted that the fire of the morning had been, as he said, ' all fox- 
fire.' 

" Fifteen months afterwards, I was brought into collision with 
Thornton at the Association, held that year at Antioch. He held 
the appointment as preacher of the missionary sermon. The 
difficulties which, six months afterwards, led to the organization 
of the Southern Baptist Convention were then approaching a 
crisis. Thornton rose in the body, on Saturday morning, and 
after graphically explaining the condition of things, and pre- 
dicting the coming rupture, emphatically expressed the opinion 
that no money could be raised to be sent to the Nothern board, 
and moved that the missionary sermon be dispensed with. The 
Association remained silent, and the moderator was about to 
put the vote, when I, though one of the youngest, and per- 
sonally acquainted with but few of the members, rose and made 
a short but warm speech in opposition to the motion.- Brother 
Stocks and others followed on the same side, and the motion 
failed. Thornton, however, was excused from preaching. W. T. 



348 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

grantly was appointed in his place, and succeeded in spite of 
the predictions, and, probably, partly in consequence of them, in 
obtaining a very large collection. After the session in which the 
vote was taken, 1 was surprised at being approached by sev- 
eral brethren who thanked me for my course, particularly as 
they said, no other member would have dared to oppose Thorn- 
ton. We staid together that night and occupied the same room, 
and he was most cordial in his bearing towards me. This is 
worthy of notice merely because he was considered by some 
impatient of opposition. 

" Some years afterwards, he floored me in the Association about 
as badly as I did him in the foregoing instance. I had made a 
motion in which I felt great interest. Some opposition was 
made, but it was evident that the body was with me. Thorn- 
ton, who Was moderator, waited till the debate appeared to be 
closed, and then, instead of putting the vote, he left the chair 
and made a speech in opposition to my motion. I saw that the 
effect was instant and decided, and though I made the best 
fight I could, my motion was lost. I regretted the result, but 
thought no more about it. During the recess for dinner, a 
brother told me that Thornton was looking for me, and pres- 
ently I met him. He wanted, he said, to apologize for his inter- 
ference, and to express the hope that I would not be hurt with 
him. Of course I replied that no apology was needed, when 
no offense had been intended or received. But I mention the 
incident as showing his tenderness towards the feelings of those 
whom he liked. 

"Riding in a carriage with him and J. Q. West, after the As- 
sociation at Warrenton, in 1850, had adjourned, driving rapidly, 
we passed the blackest negro, 1 think, I ever saw, glossy, jet 
black, making a perfect contrast with his ivory teeth. As usual, 
on the breaking up of public meetings, we were in a jovial mood. 
Thornton, who saw the negro first, was affected by his ludi- 
crous appearance, and addressed him with a boisterous laugh, 
calling him ' snow-ball.' Sitting where I was, I could see the 
poor negro was mortified, and I immediately said, ' Brother 
Thornton, you ought not to have spoken to the negro in that 
way. Tou have hurt his feelings, which, perhaps are as tender 
as either of ours.' He sobered down at once: 'Well,' said he, 



Vincent R. Thornton. 349 

£ it was wrong, I am sorry for it; and, if T could meet him 
again, I would ask his pardon.' And so he would, in all hon- 
esty and humility. Indeed, I have never known any one who 
received reproof more kindly than Thornton, when adminis- 
tered in kindness. 

"I will mention one incident, illustrative of his conscientious- 
ness and fixedness of purpose. Like most of our ministers, he 
was in the habit of smoking. While preaching to the church 
in Madison, he staid one night with the family of Dr. J. The 
doctor was not at that time a member of the church, but his 
wife was regarded as one of the best women in the community. 
After dinner, knowing that the doctor, who was absent, smoked, 
asked the lady for a segar. There were none in the house, and 
the minister went to his room. A few minutes afterwards a 
servant knocked at the door, and coming in, handed him a 
dozen segars neatly rolled up in brown paper. Upon inquiry, 
it was found that the mistress had sent the servant to the gro- 
cery, Sunday as it was, to buy the segars for her much-loved 
pastor. The conviction at once crossed his mind that, through 
a desire to accommodate his taste for, at best, a useless luxury, 
a good sister had been induced to give her countenance to a 
desecration of the Lord's day, and he determined that he 
would never smoke again. The segars, unopened, were laid on 
the dressing table, and left there; and Thornton used tobacco 
no more. 

"At one of his regular appointments, he had preached (no un- 
usual thing with him,) a sermon full of the strong meat of the 
gospel. Some one reported it, of course very imperfectly and 
probably incorrectly, to the Methodist preacher in charge at 
the place, and it was soon whispered around that next Sunday 
the preacher would answer Thornton's sermon. Preach he 
did, and commented on the 'Baptist doctrine' with all his 
power, though he was far inferior in talent to the Baptist. Of 
course it was taken for granted that Thornton would reply. A 
week of excitement followed, and the town was all agog for a 
hot theological discussion. When the Baptist pastor arrived 
Saturday evening, the brother with whom he put up reported 
what had occurred, and told him it was expected he would re- 
ply to the Methodist preacher the next day. Thornton said noth- 



350 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

ing. The next morning the church was crowded, and every 
one was full of expectation to see how a man of Thornton's 
known ability, and somewhat irascible temper, would meet the 
unprovoked attack made upon him in his absence.* After going 
through the usual preliminary service, the preacher quietly 
took his text, 'Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy.'' Never 
was a congregation more disappointed, never were a people 
more reproved, never the brethren better pleased ! The Meth- 
odist preacher was conquered, and nobody ever again spoke of 
his onslaught but to laugh at it. Thornton's sermons were not 
attacked again in that place. 

"In the early history of Mercer University, there occurred a 
difficulty between the President, Otis Smith, and the "Resident 
board" of trustees, (afterwards substituted by the Prudential 
Committee,) of which B. M. Sanders was chairman. Thornton 
sustained Smith, who was a connexion by marriage and an in- 
timate personal friend. The strife was bitter and protracted. 
The result was that Smith left the institution, and Thornton, 
in disgust, resigned his seat both in the board of trustees and 
the executive committee of the Convention. The alienation 
between him and Sanders was complete, and continued several 
years. At length Thornton was re-elected both to the trustee- 
ship and- the committee. Gradually he and Sanders resumed 
their personal intercourse, and the old wound was healed. Soon 
afterwards, Sanders was prostrated by the disease of which he 
lingered until his death. During his illness, Thornton one day 
said to me, 'lean never be sufficiently grateful that brother 
Sanders and myself have become reconciled, for if he had died 
while we were alienated from each other, I should never have 
forgiven myself for allowing so good a man to die without 
being my friend.' 

"Thornton was destitute of ambition. Instead of seeking, he 
shunned, ' pre-eminence.' He was several times, against his 
will, elected moderator of the Georgia Association. The first 
time he seriously offended his friends by his speech on taking 
the chair. He began by saying most ungraciously, 'Brethren, 
I do not thank you for the office, for I do not want it ; ' and 
then there was nothing in the few remarks that followed, or in 
his manner, to take away the sting. But, at the close of the 



Vincent B. Thornton. 351 

meeting he reinstated himself by his few words of farewell. 
He said, 'Brethren, when you elected me your moderator, I 
did not thank you ; but I thank you now ; not that I value the 
office, but the kindness and affection and confidence, which 
prompted you to vote for me, are to my heart above all price.' 
And he spoke to them in a strain of tenderness which melted 
all hearts. 

"Thornton was not a student. His sermons for the most part 
were studied while riding on his plantation or to his appoint- 
ments. In this way he had the analysis and the train of argu- 
ment firmly fixed in his mind ; but, for the filling up and the 
clothing of the thought in words, he relied much on the inspi- 
ration of the hour of preaching. But that rarely failed him; 
never in my hearing. His sermons (for I have heard him preach 
more than once on the same text,) on ' Who shall lay anything 
to the charge of God's elect,' and on Romans viii. 2, preached 
at the Georgia Baptist Convention, at Griffin, in 1848, were fair 
specimens of his preaching. 

" What he was as a preacher, his contemporaries know and 
appreciate, but posterity will have no other memorial of him 
than may be found in the imperfect accounts that his brethren 
may leave, for he wrote nothing. I do not think that he ever 
wrote an article even for the periodical press. Various causes 
conspired to produce in him a disinclination to write, but per- 
haps the strongest was a natural indolence, which inclined him 
to take his ease, except where action seemed to promise some 
definite result. If he had taken pains to cultivate the art of 
writing, I believe his written style would have equalled what 
Dr. Tucker so happily calls ' the apparently effortless manner ' 
of his preaching. But as he did not take the necessary pains, 
it is, perhaps, fortunate that he wrote nothing, for he has left 
nothing to impeach the universal testimony of the generation 
that knew him, who, with one voice, pronounce him unsur- 
passed as a preacher among the men of his day. For myself, 
whenever I recall the sermons I have heard him preach, I think 
of Luke's description of Apollos : 'An eloquent man, and mighty 
in the scriptures.' " 



352 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

HON. THOMAS STOCKS. 

At the earnest solicitation of the author of this work, Judsre 
Stocks (as he is generally called,) furnished the following rem- 
iniscences of his own life and times, which the reader will find 
deeply interesting. Though not a minister of the gospel, his 
name is so identified with the history of our denomination in 
the State for the last forty-five years, as to render this sketch 
not only desirable, but necessary. He says : " I was born the 
1st of February, 1786, in an Indian fort, near my present resi- 
dence, in Greene county. The Oconee river was then the line 
between the whites and the Creek Indians, who were so trou- 
blesome as frequently to drive the whites into forts. Every 
neighborhood, from Skull Shoals to Ifontpelier, below Milledge- 
ville, was protected by moving into these forts. The men 
worked in squads, a few days on each farm, and had to put out 
sentinels to protect them from surprise while at work. While 
most of the men were thus employed, the Indians frequently 
attacked the forts, but were invariably repulsed, a few prudent 
men and the women defending them successfully. Some of the 
women were good marksmen, and as brave as Julius Csesar. 
This state of things continued until the lands lying between 
the Oconee and Apalachee rivers were ceded to the United 
States government. 

" During such intervals as the Indians were not particularly 
troublesome, Colonel Jonas Fauche, with sixty dragoons, was 
stationed at our fort, and every day spies were sent out to look 
for Indian signs j for, in those days, you could not travel with- 
out leaving signs that could be followed on horseback. In those 
times, there were no schools in the country, and not one child 
in ten knew the alphabet at ten years of age. One of Colonel 
Fauche's men took a liking to me and taught me my letters, 
and to spell a little: Yery few men were able to send their 
sons off to school, and but few got any education whatever. 
My father died in 1796. I was brought up by my uncle Heard, 
who took good care of what little property was left me, but 
neglected my education. 

"In 1807, I married and settled where I now live. In 1813, 
I was elected to the State Legislature, and served in the House 



Hon. Thomas Stocks. 353 

of Representatives eight years, and in the Senate twelve years, 
consecutively — eight years of which time I acted as President 
of the Senate. In 1815, I was elected one of the Judges of the 
Inferior Court of Greene county, which office I held thirty-two 
years in succession. 

"In 1826, I was convicted of sin, under Jack Lumpkin's 
preaching. My wife had been a member of the church several 
years. After passing through many and sore conflicts, it pleased 
God to reveal His Son in me as my Saviour. No one who has 
never experienced that feeling can ever be made fully to under- 
stand it, but he that has felt it in his heart knows that it is 
God's work, and not man's. In 1829, I attended the Baptist 
State Convention at Milledgeville, when Rev. H. O. Wyer in- 
formed that body that Josiah Pen field, a deacon of his church 
in Savannah, had bequeathed to the Convention the sum of 
$2,500 00 for the education of young men having the ministry 
in view : Provided, said Convention would raise an equal amount, 
which was done by those in attendance, thus securing Penfield's 
legacy. An executive committee was appointed to carry this 
object into effect, of which I was one. It was determined to 
start a Manual Labor School at the village of Penfield, which 
went into operation under Rev. B. M. Sanders, and I am grati- 
fied to say no institution within my knowledge, with the same 
means, has turned out so many useful men. The pulpit, the bar 
and the bench show this. 

" When the project for a college at Washington, Wilkes 
county, failed, I was opposed to the elevation of Mercer In- 
stitute to a University, because I feared the original object, 
theological education, would be lost sight of. When, however, 
the executive committee had decided on that step, brother San- 
ders and myself saw the importance of purchasing the Malone 
tract of land adjoining Penfield, which we did for $2,500 00. 
When the Trustees of the University took charge, we tendered 
them the land below cost, which they gladly accepted. The 
village was enlarged, and about $5,000 00 was raised by the 
first sale of town lots from the Malone tract, leaving three hun- 
dred acres unsold, which was afterwards sold at fine prices. 

" You ask me to give you my recollections of the Baptists in 
former days. I knew only one Baptist preacher till I w r as 
23 



354 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

twelve years old — an old brother Heflin. He was then the 
pastor of Shiloh church, not far from where Penfield is now 
located. He preached monthly. At least half the congrega- 
tion walked to church. I have seen from thirty to forty rifles 
brought to church, and when preaching commenced the men 
stood sentry, for fear of Indians, till the services closed. My 
recollection is that Mr. Heflin was a model preacher. He con- 
tinued in charge there till his death, after which Mercer, Mar- 
shall and James Matthews visited the church. The Baptists of 
those days were singular in one respect : they hardly ever had 
churches in villages or towns, the church in Washington, Wilkes 
county, being the first that I knew of. The custom was to have 
preaching once a month, and two sermons in succession were 
always expected, if there was more than one preacher present. 
I never heard of a Sabbath-school till I was grown, and never 
was in one till brother Sherwood was pastor in Greensboro. 

" In 1830, I withdrew from public life and moved to Greens- 
boro, for the purpose of winding up the affairs of a bank that 
had been there. I continued there four years. Brother Yin- 
cent Sanford subsequently moved into the place, and a church 
was organized. But the Presbyterians occupied nearly all the 
villages and towns in those days." 

HUMPHEEY POSEY. 

This eminent servant of God was born in Henry county, ■ 
Yirginia, January 12th, 1780. While he was yet a child, his 
father removed to Burke county, North Carolina, where young 
Posey spent his youth. His parents were pious, and maintain- 
ed an excellent character. His mother, especially, seems to 
have been a person of superior natural endowments, of great 
decision of'character, and of indomitable perseverance, which 
traits of character were inherited by her son. He was above 
the ordinary size, of powerful frame,, of fine head and face, 
and possessed great vivacity and activity both of body and 
mind. The books from which his mother taught him to read, 
were the Psalter and New Testament, the latter of which he 
had read through several times before he was seven years old. 
He was enabled to acquire the merest rudiments of an English 



Humphrey Posey. 355 

education, but this small stock (to his credit be it recorded,) 
was greatly improved in after years, so that he wrote and 
spoke more correctly than many who enjoyed superior advan- 
tages. "Through desire, a man having separated himself, 
seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom." Proverbs, xvii. 
1. The fact that he was brought up on a farm, and had to 
"work for a living," contributed, no doubt, much to the devel- 
opment of his body and mind. 

His first marriage occurred when he was quite young, being 
only a little upwards of twenty. Dr. Franklin would have com- 
mended him for wisdom. He was at least wise in the fact that 
he selected a pious woman for a wife, of whom Solomon de- 
clares, "she will do him good, and not evil, all the days of her 
life." Proverbs xxxi. 12. Her maiden name was Lettice Jolly. 
He left a written account of his religious experience, which 
differs but little from that of many others we have heard or 
read. The Holy Spirit seems to have striven with him nearly 
two years before he was enabled to exercise saving faith, and 
even then he "rejoiced with trembling." He was baptized into 
the fellowship of a Baptist church in Union District, South 
Carolina, (where he had been teaching "little old-field schools," 
as he expressed it,) on the 11th of June, 1802. On coming up 
out of the water, he had a strong desire to address the people, 
but the enemy of his soul suggested, "you have gone too far 
already ; for in a short time you will turn out as bad as ever," 
and so he yielded, and said nothing. Yet the day of his bap- 
tism he ever after regarded as one of the happiest days of his 
life. He felt, that he was inexpressibly honored in being per- 
mitted to follow his Saviour. His first attempt at public exhor- 
tation and prayer, was during a camp-meeting at the church 
where his membership was. (Such meetings were not uncom- 
mon among the Baptists in those times.) He was licensed to 
preach in 1803, and in 1804 he removed to Buncombe county, 
North Carolina, where he received ordination in 1805. . He 
says, "I commenced preaching, of evenings, in a destitute set- 
tlement near where I was teaching a school, on Cane creek. 
Brother James Whitaker and myself drew up Articles of Faith, 
as we could not find any in the country ; and we collected all 
the members intending to be in the constitution, and examined 



3 5G Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

them on Llic articles. All being agreed, a Presbytery was in- 
vited to attend. The Presbytery was pleased with our Arti- 
cles of Faith, and so the churoh was organized. Two of the 
members were, at the same time, ordained to the deacon's 
office, and I was ordained to the work of the ministry. At the 
next meeting I baptized four professed believers, and the work 
of the Lord continued for a length of time. Some were re- 
ceived for baptism at almost every meeting." 

The Cherokee Indians were quite numerous in that "hill 
country," and it is understood that Posey preached the gos- 
pel to them, as he had opportunity, while Judson, Eice, and 
others, who subsequently became missionaries in the East, 
were yet students at Williams' College. After Eice returned 
to America, he became acquainted with Posey, and in the 
winter of 1817 he opened a correspondence with him in regard 
to the practicability of missionary operations among those 
Indians, which resulted in Posey's appointment as mission- 
ary to the Cherokees. The correspondence between them, 
and also that between Posey and Dr. Staughton, then Cor- 
responding Secretary of the Baptist Board of Foreign Mis- 
sions, is highly interesting, and does credit to all parties, but 
we have not room for it in this brief sketch. A wide and effect- 
ual door was thus opened to him, and the long cherished desire 
of his heart attained— to preach the gospel to the poor Cherokees. 
All the energies of his great soul were forthwith enlisted in the 
work, and in the two following years he formed a very general 
acquaintance with the tribe, and also with the poor whites on 
the frontier. At a grand council of the chiefs at New Town, in 
October, 1819, he obtained their hearty consent to establish a 
school for their benefit at Valley Town. Soon thereafter, he 
visited Washington City and secured an annual appropriation 
for said school, by which its efficiency was greatly promoted. 
He received every encouragement and attention from John C. 
Calhoun, and other distinguished men of that day. Such was 
his presence and bearing that he invariably commanded respect 
from men who were capable of appreciating true nobility. From 
Washington City he proceeded, on horseback to Philadelphia, 
(railroads and steamboats were unknown in those days,) where 
the churches and pastors received him with the utmost cordi- 



Humphrey Posey. 357 

ality, and where he awakened the most profound interest for 
"the poor Cherokees," as he almost invariably styled them. 
The Saviour said, u As ye go, preach, saying the kingdom of 
heaven is at hand." P.osey followed this rule returning from 
Philadelphia, as well as on his journey thither, and, indeed, on 
all the journeys he made. As he went, he preached, and thus ex- 
tended his acquaintance and influence, at the same time that he 
engaged the hearts and prayers of increasing thousands in be- 
half of his "poor Cherokees." He renewed his visit to Phila- 
delphia in 1821, to consult with the Mission Board, and to obtain 
supplies and assistance for his Valley Town school. He suc- 
ceeded in obtaining the needed supplies, and engaged several 
missionaries and assistants to come to his aid : Rev. Thomas 
Eoberts and wife, Rev. Evan Jones and wife, Isaac Cleaver, a 
blacksmith, John Farrier, a farmer, besides Miss Cleaver and 
Miss Lewis, who all sailed from that city, laden with clothing 
for the poor Indian children, and all other things necessary for 
a large missionary establishment. He continued his connection 
with this mission until 1824. As some false rumors were circu- 
lated in regard to the "waste of money and means" at this 
school, the French Broad Association, at the request of Mr. 
Posey, appointed a committee to visit the place and report the 
true state of the case. Only two of that committee acted, but 
they reported: "That they had done as they xcere requested, and 
found the school in a very flourishing condition, fully up to their 
highest expectations. That, notwithstanding large sums of money 
had been expended for the establishment, yet not unnecessarily ; and 
that they, therefore, do heartily recommend its promotion.'' The 
venerable deacon, James Whitaker, corroborates this testimony, 
and says of Posey: "A more attentive and faithful -man could 
not be found, and the Cherokees universally esteem him as a 
good man. At the mention of his name, those who still remain 
in the country will brighten up with a smile on their counte- 
nances." In 1836, this school is reported in Allen's Register as 
being in a flourishing condition, " and to this day the Cherokees 
have more confidence in Humphrey Posey than they have in any 
other man living." And it can be recorded, in truth, that Pcsey 
carried the Cherokees in his heart to the day of his death. 
Those who heard him preach towards the close of his life, know 



3o8 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

that his allusions to them were frequent and touching. No 
doubt, many of the red men will be " stars in his crown of re- 
joicing in that day." How much better to save them by the 
gospel than to destroy them by the sword. 

While on an agency for Yalley Town school, in June, 1822, he 
visited Georgia, and was present at the organization of the 
General Association of the State, now denominated the Baptist 
State Convention. Upon leaving Yalley Town, in 1824, he re- 
sided temporarily in some one of the old counties in upper 
Georgia, and finally located in what was then termed the Cher- 
okee region of the State, where he designed spending the bal- 
ance of his life. Here he accepted an agency for Hearn school, 
an important institution, but then deeply in debt, and likely to 
be sold out by the sheriff. He was successful in this agency; 
relieved the institution of its embarrassments, and it has since 
enjoyed much prosperity. His first wife lived forty-two years, 
and was the mother of ten children. She died in Walker county, 
in 1842. All her children gave evidence of genuine piety. This 
was, of course, matter of fervent gratitude to God on the part 
of the parents. He frequently mentioned it as such towards 
the close of his life. Two years, or thereabouts, after the death 
of his first wife, he was married to Mrs. Jane Stokes, of New- 
nan, Georgia, to which place he removed, and where he termi- 
nated his earthly course. He served several churches in the 
vicinity as pastoral supply, to acceptance and profit. Having 
been appointed at the preceding session of the Western Asso- 
ciation to preach the missionary sermon before that body, in 
September, 1846, he came forward on the Lord's day and, with 
great liberty and power, performed that service. It was the 
dying effort of a giant mind, and on a subject that lay nearest 
his heart. Many, now living, cherish the remembrance of that 
sermon, and will till their latest day. The effort, however, was 
too much for his failing strength, for that afternoon he was at- 
tacked with a chill, which was followed by high fever. From 
that attack he only partially recovered ; his health continued 
feeble, and after preaching his last sermon at Ebenezer. church, 
Coweta county, on the second Lord's day in December follow- 
ing, he was again prostrated by disease, and fell asleep in Jesus 
on the 28th of that month. Death had no terrors for him, but 



Joshua S. Callaway, 359 

was welcomed as God's messenger, sent to release him from the 
labors of earth and introduce him to the rest and refreshment 
of heaven. The writer visited the good man's tomb, (which is 
covered by a neat mai^ble slab, with an appropriate inscription,) 
in company with several others, some years ago. It is seven 
miles east of Newnan, in a retired spot. At the request of his 
son, Kev. Otis Smith delivered a discourse in memory of him 
in May following, at Newnan, and at the next session of the 
Western Association, Eev. J. E. Dawson preached a similar 
sermon. " The memory of the just is blessed." 

The writer records it as his deliberate conviction that Hum- 
phrey Posey was, naturally, one of the greatest men and, for 
his limited opportunities, one of the greatest preachers he has 
ever known. His person, his countenance, his voice, the throes 
of his gigantic mind, the conceptions of his great christian 
soul — all proclaimed him great. The first time the writer ever 
saw him was at the Georgia Baptist Convention, at Shiloh 
church, near Penfield, in 1835. Such men as Mercer, Sanders, 
Dawson, Thornton, Mallary, Brooks, and others, were there ; 
but Posey was a giant among them all. AVho, that was j^resent, 
does not remember his sermon on that occasion ? And who, 
that heard him preach the education sermon at Monroe, Walton 
county, in 1838, will ever forget it ? Yet his great talents were 
all consecrated to the glory of God and the good of his fellow- 
men. Even though our abilities may be far inferior to his, with 
such as we have, let us "go and do likewise." 



JOSHUA S. CALLAWAY, 

Was born in Wilkes county, Georgia, May 30th, 1789. He 
was the fifth child of Joshua and Isabella Graves Callaway. 
His mother's maiden name was Henderson. At the time of his 
birth, his parents were members of Hutton's Fork (now Sardis) 
church, in said county. It was for one of his uncles, Samuel 
Callaway, that Callaway county, in Kentucky, was named. 
Another uncle, James Callaway, settled in Yirginia and raised 
a large family. Kev. Jesse Mercer was pastor of Hutton's Fork 
church. The subject of this brief memoir was impressed with 
the importance of religion while yet a child, and at the early 



360 Georgia Baptists — Biographical, 

age of eleven, obtained hope in Christ. Though he gave deci- 
ded evidences of genuine piety, he was discouraged from join- 
ing the church by his parents and others, most of the chris- 
tians of those days being prejudiced against young persons 
making a profession of religion. We give a portion of his re- 
ligious experience in his own language : " Thus my soul was 
troubled, because I had sinned, and that I was a sinner against 
a good and holy God. These troubles, more or less, continued 
with me until December, 1800. When, one night, I was lying 
on my bed, afraid to go to sleep, in deep meditation, for fear I 
should be lost, both soul and body, it did appear to me that I 
saw a way by which I could be saved, and the way of salvation 
through Jesus Christ did appear so complete and glorious, I did 
verily think that any and all might be saved if they would only 
look to that blessed Saviour. Here my troubles were all ban- 
ished, and while in my ecstacy and joy, father and. mother 
awoke. They seemed to be alarmed more than otherwise, and, 
as I had been lingering for some time, they seemed to fear I 
was going to die right away. But I assured them they need 
not fear, for I saw that Jesus Christ could save all sinners if 
they would only come to Him, and as I had great love for my 
brother-in-law, John Milner,* [who had been kind in teaching 
him and others of the family the rudiments of an English edu- 
cation,] on that memorable night, I told my parents if they 
would send for him, I knew I could explain to him how he 
might become a christian. And I did verily believe I could tell 
him so that he would understand and know for himself. So 
they sent for him, and I began and told him all about it, so that 
I thought he must understand. But, alas ! when I had finished, 
he slowly raised his head, which had been hanging down, and 
remarked, ' Oh ! Joshua, I know nothing about it.' " 

It was not until he was in his twentieth year that he re- 
ceived such encouragement from Eev. Jesse Mercer, with whom 
he sought an interview, as to induce him to offer to the church. 
He was baptized by that eminent servant of God into the Sardis 
church, September 23d, 1809. Of all things in this world he . 
desired an education, yet the only schooling he ever enjoyed 
was from February to September, 1808, during which time he 

*He knew that Milner was serious on the subject of religion. 



Joshua 8. Callaway. 361 

enjoyed the instruction of a certain Mr. Walker, of whom he 
says : " I often heard him say that the English grammar was 
a cheat, and that some men were trying to impose upon the 
people, and to my certain knowledge he could not pronounce 
half the words in Dilworth's Spelling Book correctly. Yet I 
determined, if God permitted me to live, I would yet know 
something ; and the first few dollars I got I took to a mer- 
chant and told him I wanted a book. He readily told me 
he had the right sort of a book for me, and showed me Euclid's 
Elements. I immediately bought it, and paid every cent of 
money I had for it, about four dollars. Many nights I sweated 
and poured over it until midnight. Thousands of pine-knots 
did I burn while I gazed on that book." Yet the man who had 
such poor opportunities in early life, became an eminent minister 
of the gospel in subsequent years. Joshua S. Callaway was a 
profound theologian, deeply versed in the doctrines and discipline 
of the gospel, and an exceedingly interesting and powerful 
preacher. 

In the year 1818 he removed to Jones county and became a 
member of Sardis church, by which he was called to the work 
of the ministry, and at her request was ordained in June, 1820, 
by a presbytery consisting of Edmund Talbot, Benjamin Milner 
and John M. Gray. He was soon preaching to four churches, 
and his time and attention were almost wholly engrossed with 
the duties of the sacred calling. He says he could not have 
thus given himself up but that he had a pious wife and one faith- 
ful deacon. She would say to him, " Go and jn*each, and I will 
stay at home and work." Of that deacon he says, " There was 
a noble man of God, a deacon, belonging to Elam church, Jones 
county, whose name was Thomas Blount. Through his instru- 
mentality I was able to serve all four of my churches, but with- 
out whose help I should have been compelled to resign all my 
churches in order to provide for my family." He bears further 
honorable testimony to the fidelity and liberality of this dea- 
con, for whose posterity, to their latest generations, he records 
his prayer. 

He remained in Jones county ten years, or until 1828, when 
he removed to Henry county. Those ten years seem to have 
been the happiest portion of his life. Soon after his removal to 



362 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

Henry coirnty those dissensions in. the denomination arose 
■which resulted in its being divided into the missionary and anti 
missionary parties. A man of his prominence could not but be 
involved in those troubles. Circumstances seemed for a time 
to throw him into the anti-mission ranks. But it was only in 
appearance, for he soon found opportunity to assert his real 
sentiments, and under his leadership the Flint Eiver Associa- 
tion took decided missionary ground, a minority of her churches, 
under Eev. William Mosely, having withdrawn and formed the 
Towalagi Association. He was moderator of the Flint Eiver 
Association about fifteen years in succession immediately pre- 
ceding his death, and was a model presiding officer. During 
the early years of his ministry he kept an account of the bap- 
tisms he performed until it reached upwards of fourteen hundred, 
when, conceiving the idea that it was wrong to keep such ac- 
counts, he promptly desisted. For a number of years he rep- 
resented his Association in the G-eorgia Baptist Convention, by 
which body he was highly respected. Indeed, there were few 
men in that intelligent body of christians who possessed as 
much weight of character. He spoke seldom, but when he did, 
he received the most marked attention, especially from the 
older members. His views were always clear and scriptural, 
and were expressed in a christian spirit. 

J. S. Callaway was a person of slender frame, and from his 
childhood of exceedingly delicate constitution. He was erect and 
dignified in his carriage, of pleasant voice and winning address, 
and an unusully interesting and persuasive speaker. Though 
conciliatory in manner, he possessed a strong will, indomitable 
perseverance and unflinching integrity. His views were strongly 
Calvinistic, and he knew as well how to sustain them by the 
scriptures as most men of his day, and that is saying a great 
deal for him, for he lived in an age of giants. He maintained 
an unblemished character to the day of his death. 

This event, which must happen alike to all, occurred at Joues- 
boro (where he then resided,) about the year 1854. He was 
confined to his bed several weeks, during which it was the 
privilege of the writer to visit him frequently. Of all the in- 
stances "of the patience of hope and the triumph of faith" 
which he has witnessed, none have been more striking and g'lo- 



William Mosely. 363 

rious than this. The decease of the apostle who said, " Oh, 
death, where is thy sting ! oh, grave, where is thy victory !" 
could scarce have been more triumphant. All who witnessed 
that event were constrained to acknowledge that his death was 
a beautiful commentary on his life and an indubitable confirma- 
tion of his faith, and that a great man in Israel had fallen. 



WILLIAM MOSELY. 

This brother, who was quite eminent in that portion of the 
denomination with which he was identified, was the son of 
Eev. Elijah Mosely, also an eminent man in his day. They 
were descendants of English and Welch parentage. William 
was born in Elbert county, Georgia, October 21st, 1796. His 
opportunities for education in early life were quite limited, his 
schooling amounting, in all, perhaps, to not more than twelve 
months. Yet, by assiduous application in later years, he in- 
creased this small stock so as to enable him to write with a 
good degree of perspicuity and force, and to speak with great 
fluency and power. 

He professed hope in Christ, and was baptized in 1821, where 
or by whom is not known to the writer, though it is believed 
to have been in Putnam county, and by his father. It was not 
long after his baptism that he entered upon the work of the 
gospel ministry, in which his zeal and talents soon rendered 
him quite conspicuous. He rose, as it were, at a bound to the 
front rank among the ministers of that day. Nature lavished 
her gifts upon him. Added to a fine and portly person and a 
commanding presence were a rich and sonorous voice, an easy 
and flowing elocution. Though his education was so defective, 
he never seemed at a loss for a word, and, when fully under 
the inspiration of his subject, he was sometimes powerfully elo- 
quent, and was generally interesting. His sermons were fre- 
quently two hours in length, and sometimes three hours, yet 
his audiences seldom showed weariness, and never inattention. 
As was the custom of the times, he made tours, among the 
churches which usually occupied several weeks, and in which 
he was accompanied by some other preacher. They generally 
both preached daily, having two sermons without intermission 



364 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

in each church they visited, and sometimes having night meet- 
ings at private houses. Mr. Mosely almost invariably attracted 
large congregations on these tours. He and Rev. James Hen- 
derson, of Jasper county, a man of good natural ability, though 
not the equal of Moseley, often made such tours in company. 
It is said he was instrumental in bringing many to a saving 
knowledge of the truth, and that the churches which he served 
as pastor enjoyed much prosperity. 

His talents proved a snare to him in one respect at least. In 
the midst of his successful career as a preacher, he suffered 
himself to become involved in politics. He wrote for the papers, 
made "stump speeches," ran for the Legislature several terms, 
and once for Congress. His career as a politician began in 1840. 
In 1843 he was elected to the Senate of the State Legislature. 
In 1846 he was run for Congress against a popular and talented 
man, General Hugh A. Haralson, and lacked only a few vote3 
of being elected, though his opponent was on the strong side 
(the Democratic,) in the District. After this he was several 
times a member of the Georgia Legislature, in one branch or 
the other. He maintained a respectable stand as a statesman, 
and was prompt and faithful in the discharge of his duties. He 
seemed to have acquired quite a thirst for popular favor, which 
of course injured him in his character and influence as a min- 
ister of the gospel. No matter what a man's talents may be, 
he cannot be preacher and politician at the same time without 
detriment to his clerical standing. He finally " broke down " as 
a politician, while his influence as a minister of the gospel had 
been sadly impaired. 

Though his father was an ardent and zealous advocate of the 
missionary cause and kindred objects, Mosely seems, from an 
early period of his public career, to have taken a decided stand 
against all such things. And when, from 1830 to 1840, the de- 
nomination in this State separated into the missionary and 
anti-missionary parties, he took sides with the latter, and 
maintained his position to a late period of life. He seemed 
honestly to believe that he and his party were " Old-side Bap- 
tists," by which title he generally designated them. Under 
this conviction, at the session of the Flint Eiver Association at 
Holly Grove church, Monroe county, in 1837, he withdrew from 



William Mosely. 365 

that bod} 7 , carrying fifteen churches with him, which were con- 
stituted into an Association called the Towaliga, at County. 
Line church, July, 1838. For twenty-five years or more these 
two bodies have stood aloof from each other. The Flint made 
one or two overtures for correspondence, but the brethren of 
the Towaliga seem not to have been ready. It is gratifying, 
however, to add that negotiations for peace and christian cor- 
respondence are now progressing and have been for a twelve- 
month past, with encouraging prospects of success. The Tow- 
aliga has recinded the "Thirteenth Article" of her creed, by 
which she had declared non-fellowship with all human institu- 
tions, as benevolent societies are generally termed by anti- 
mission Baptists. It will be a happy day for the Baptists of 
the South when these divisions shall all have been healed. 

Mr. Mosely removed from Putnam to Henry county, where 
he resided many years, and during a portion of which time he 
was engaged in merchandise, associating a distillery and the 
sale of ardent spirits with his store, which was a country stand. 
He seems very soon to have become convinced of the wrong of 
distilling and selling ardent spirits, for he promptly abandoned 
both, and would never afterwards even so much as drink spirits 
as a beverage. His merchandising proved to be an unfortunate 
business for him, for he lost nearly all the property he had ever 
made, which was not much. His circumstances were quite 
limited all his life. When Griffin became a thriving town he 
removed thither, where he remained until near the close of his 
life. 

The truth of history requires that we record one or two other 
facts which we would fain omit. He and his first wife, by 
whom he had nine children, separated and lived apart a num- 
ber of years. He sued for and obtained a divorce, and immedi- 
ately married again. This act was tolerated, if not approved, 
by a few of his friends. But the public condemned it, and none 
more emphatically than his brethren of the Towaliga Associa- 
tion and kindred bodies. He " lost caste " among them, de- 
clined re-election as moderator, (which office he had held from 
its organization.) and removed to Pike county, Alabama, where 
he soon died, March 6th, 1865. It is a source of satisfaction to 
add that he retained the exercise of his faculties to the last, 



366 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

and met death with the composure and joy of a true christian. 
We trust his soul is at rest. 

Since the foregoing was written, the author has obtained ad- 
ditional particulars concerning Mr. Closely 's residence in Ala- 
bama and his death. Rev. A. N. Worthy, an eminent minister 
in that State, says: "From the day he landed in Troy to that 
of his death, I was his constant companion, and stood by him 
in the hour of his death, and heard the last rumbling clod that 
fell upon his coffin. It affords me singular pleasure to bear tes- 
timony to his calm, christian resignation, and his entire resig- 
nation to the will of the Lord in all things. Among his last 
words were, 'AH is well. Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly !' 
His anti-mission brethren treated him with marked coldness on 
account (as he believed,) of his changed views on the subject 
of missions." He did not think his mortal remains would be 
welcome in their church burying-ground, for which reason he 
expressed the wish that he might be interred in the private 
cemetery of Mrs. Murphree, a member of the Missionary Bap- 
tist church at Troy; and he was interred, according to his wish, 
within fifty feet of said church. A beautiful grave mound and 
monument were erected over his remains by the- ladies of the 
Troy church, and an appropriate notice of his death appeared 
in the Minutes of the Salem (Missionary) Baptist Association 
for the year 1867. 

It is somewhat remarkable that Mosely and Trice, who la- 
bored so long together in Georgia, should have died near each 
other in Alabama. 

The following also appeared in the Minutes of the Salem As- 
sociation for 1867 : 

THOMAS C. TRICE. 

Departed this life at his residence in Pike county, Alabama, 
on the 3d day of July, A. L., 1866, Elder Thomas Calvin Trice, 
aged fifty-eight years, three months and one day. 

He was born in Orange county, North Carolina, and was mar- 
ried, on his arrival at manhood, to Miss S. H. White, daughter 
of William H. White, of Trade county, in said last mentioned 
State. He was hopefully converted to the religion of Jesus 
Christ and joined the Baptist church in 1828, and exemplified 



Thomas C. Trice. 367 

the beauties of our holy religion during the balance of his 
eventful life. Soon after his conversion, he commenced preach- 
ing the gospel, and continued warning his fellow-man, "shun- 
ning not to proclaim the whole counsel of God." In the year 
1832, he moved to. the State of Georgia, Jasper county, and 
from thence to Pike county, Georgia, in the year 1839, where 
he resided until he moved to Pike county, Alabama, in the year 
1864, where he died. 

FOr many years he represented his county in the Georgia 
State Legislature, where he distinguished himself as one of the 
working men of the body, and commanded the respect of his 
co-laborers for his sterling good sense and faithful discharge of 
duty. So, in every relation of life, he was never known to oc- 
cupy an equivocal position. In politics, he was an old line Whig 
and States Rights man, and in the recent struggle for independ- 
ence, he was uncompromisingly Southern. 

As a citizen, he was written down by all as an eminently use- 
ful -man ; as a neighbor, kind and obliging; as a friend, steadfast 
and trusty; and in the endearing relation of husband and father, 
none can so well appreciate his superior excellency of character 
as his heart-broken widow and sorrow-stricken children. 

While he thus stood in the various relations of life, in noth- 
ing did the cardinal virtues shine forth so much as in his church 
actions, and here we must be permitted to refer to his course 
during the unfortunate division which took place amongst the 
Southern Baptist churches in the years 1836, 1837 and 1838. 
When the division occurred, he took sides -with what is known 
as the "Hardshell" or "Primitive" Baptists, and for many 
years — indeed, up to a short time of his death, he held com- 
munion with this portion of the church. It were needless to 
recount the causes operating on his mind and influencing his 
course. But, in his last days, it is certain that this great and 
good man could not sanction what he considered flagrant errors 
of the anti-Mission Baptists, such as re-baptism, and the mani- 
fest departure of many of his brethren from the true principles 
of the gospel, both in faith and practice, as held by the church 
from the days of the Apostles until now. Hence, he sought 
communion with the regular Baptist church, and was cordially 



368 Georgia baptists — Biographical. 

received into Spring Hill (missionary) Baptist church some time 
before his death. 

it is due to his memory to state that he did not love his anti- 
Mission Baptist brethren less, but the cause of Christ more, 
which influenced him to join those who believe it to be their 
duty to "preach the gospel to every creature," so far as they 
can. Let no one say he changed his religion in his latter days. 
This would be a gross misrepresentation of a good man. He 
only came back to the original church of his first choice, who 
rigidly adhere to the ancient landmarks, and with whom he 
could exercise liberty of conscience, and it is needless to tell 
the present generation how dear this privilege is to the regular 
Baptists. 

As a consistent and well beloved member of the regular Bap- 
tist church, and faithful preacher of the cross of Christ, he 
closed his mortal career. Much bodily pain and suffering (the 
consequence of protracted labor as a minister of Jesus,) he was 
called upon to endure by the Master in his last days. These he 
bore with christian resignation and fortitude, and spoke of his 
dissolution as an event to be devoutly wished rather than dread- 
ed. Not believing in funeral sermons, as held by Eoman Cath- 
olics and their descendants, still he desired that one of his faith- 
ful brother preachers — his pastor — should preach a sermon on 
the occasion of his death, selecting the text a few days before 
his death. 

Truly, this good man has fought a good fight — has finished 
his course — and no one who intimately knew him in life will 
doubt that he has entered upon that life of happiness and oy 
which is promised to all those who die in the Lord. "Hence- 
forth," from the day of his death, he is ever happy. 

It might not be amiss to say that, in consequence of his be- 
loved Baptistic views, and his freedom from prejudice and super- 
stition, that many of his anti-Mission Baptist brethren suspected 
him of being a Mason. In this they were very much mistaken. 
He never was a Mason until a few short months before his 
death ; and in the full vigor of his intellect, greatly above medi- 
ocrity, he united himself to this Order, and their tenets met his 
entire approval. The only regrets he ever expressed, after be- 
coming acquainted with Masonry, was that he did not attach 
himself to the Lodge at an earlier day. 



James Carter. 369 



JAMBS CAETEE. 



This devoted christian and eminently useful minister of the 
gospel was born near the town of Powelton, in this State, about 
the year 1797. His parents, Josiah Carter, and Mary, his wife, 
were Virginians, and had settled on the Ogeechee river soon 
after their marriage. Being the youngest child, and his parents 
growing old, his opportunities for education were even inferior 
to his older brothers and sisters, as he was needed at home to 
work. After he was grown, being elected a magistrate in his 
county, he had to learn the art of calculating interest from the 
sheriff. At a very early age he became hopefully pious, and 
was baptized into the Powelton church by Eev. Jesse Mercer, 
between whom and himself there ever existed the utmost cor- 
diality of friendship and christian confidence. Mr. Mercer, ad- 
vanced in years and in failing health, called on Mr. Carter to 
rest a few days from the fatigue of traveling, which he was 
doing with the faint hope of recuperating his strength. It 
turned out, however, that God had led him to the house of his 
friend to die, which event took place September 6th, 1841. Mr. 
Carter ever cherished, with mournful satisfaction, the fact that 
he had the privilege of waiting on the great and good man, and 
the pastor of his early years, in his dying moments, and then 
of closing his eyes. 

He married young, his first wife being Euth Asbury, daughter 
of Eichard Asbury, of Greene county, by whom he had several 
children, only one of whom is living — Mr. William Carter, of 
Stewart county, a most estimable gentleman. His second wife, 
was Mary Bond, of Wilkes county. One of her children is 
Colonel Thomas M. Carter, a gentleman of intelligence and 
ability, and at one time a member of the State Senate. 

Mr. Carter removed with his family to Butts county, about 
the year 1823, and settled as a farmer on Tussahaw creek, 
where he resided many years, and until he removed to Indian 
Springs, where he died. 

Aoout 1827 he was licensed to preach the gospel by Sardis 

church, Henry county. Through his labors a few disciples 

were gathered together, who were organized into a church in 

his immediate neighborhood, himself being one of the constitu- 

24 



370 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

ents. This occurred soon after his licensure. With little or no 
intermission he continued pastor of this church (Macedonia,) 
for about thirty years, during which time he baptized into it 
upwards of one thousand members. He was, also, pastor of 
other churches — Holly Grove, in Monroe, Indian Springs and 
others, where he was also eminently successful. His robust 
constitution and vigorous health enabled him to perform an im- 
mense amount of labor, to which he was impelled by his burn- 
ing zeal for the cause of Christ. It is doubtful whether any of 
our ministers ever preached more, or did more good by preach- 
ing, than James Carter. According to the custom of the times 
he occasionally made extensive tours into remote parts of the 
State, preaching to the destitute or attending the sessions of 
Associations. His labors, however, were mostly devoted to his 
own and contiguous counties. 

;' While his doctrinal sentiments were strongly Galvinistic, 
which were faithfully declared on all suitable occasions, his 
preaching was eminently practical. His appeals to sinners were 
frequently powerfully impressive and convincing. He had a 
commanding person, a strong but pleasant voice, good com- 
mand of language, and an impassioned manner of address. 

His constitution failed suddenly ; it is wonderful that it had 
borne up so long under the tremendous tax imposed upon it. 
He gradually declined for six months "from general debility," 
as the doctors said. His death (which occurred August 25th, 
1858,) was a triumph as well as his life, and he was buried at 
Macedonia church, at a spot long before selected by himself, 
and immediately in front of the pulpit which he had so long 
occupied. At the ensuing session of the Flint Elver Associa- 
tion, at McDonough, of which he had been moderator for years, 
the writer delivered a discourse in memory of Mr. Carter, 
which the Lord was pleased to sanctify as the beginning of a 
great and gracious revival. 



WILLIAM A. CALLAWAY. 

The subject of this brief notice was born in Wilkes county, 
Georgia, about the year 1804. His parents were pious mem- 
bers of the Baptist church. The author heard him relate his 



William A. Callaway. 371 

christian experience in substance as follows : "From his earli- 
est recollection, his father kept up family worship. When 
taken down with his death sickness, these exercises were sus- 
pended for several days. One morning, however, all the family, 
white and black, were summoned into his room. (William was 
then perhaps fifteen years old.) The sick man was propped 
up in bed — was much emaciated, and breathed and spoke with 
difficulty. He informed his family that 'the time for his de- 
parture was at hand,' and that he confidently expected that 
day to 'depart and be with Christ.' He then read a chapter 
as usual, and offered such a prayer as none but a dying chris- 
tian can make. To each of the servants he then addressed a 
few parting words, and then to his children in their turn, end- 
ing with William, who was the oldest. That scene, and those 
words of his dying father, were never forgotten. Before sun- 
set that father's soul was with his God. He grew up to man- 
hood, and became a married man, before his conversion; was 
what the world calls moral, as he never indulged in profane 
swearing, drunkenness, nor any of the grosser vices. Yet he 
was fond of gay company, and delighted in the ballroom and 
the dance. Often, amid scenes of frivolity and mirth, would that 
death-bed scene and the faithful warning of his dying father 
recur to his mind, and drive him to retirement and prayer. He 
had been married two or three years to his first wife, a Miss 
Pope, and had removed to Henry county, Georgia, where he 
was engaged in farming, when he was fully aroused to a sense 
of his lost condition as a sinner, in the sight of God. By what 
means he was awakened is not remembered by the writer. 
But one night he had become so troubled that he could not 
sleep, and retired from his house for prayer. While thus en- 
gaged, Christ was revealed in him as the hope of glory, and 
his heart was made to rejoice in God, his Saviour. He prompt- 
ly returned to the house, and told his wife of the gracious 
change he had experienced. But he could not stop there. He 
had a brother; living about sixty miles distant, to whom he 
must communicate the joyful intelligence without delay. Isext 
morning he took his breakfast before daybreak, and set off on 
horseback to see his brother. Before he slept, he had related 
his christian experience to his brother, and they had joined in 



372 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

prayer together. It was not long ere that brother was also 
rejoicing in hope." 

More than thirty years have elapsed since the writer heard 
the foregoing relation, which was given on the occasion of his 
ordination to the ministry. He believes it to be substantially 
correct, though his memory may be at fault in some particu- 
lars. His visit to his brother, as above related, strikingly illus- 
trates his character. He was eminently a man of decision and 
promptness. Whatsoever his hand found to do — whether rela- 
ting; to things temporal or spiritual — he did with his might. 

In 1833, he was ordained at McDonough — B. H. Willaon and 
J. H. Campbell, the presbytery. As a licentiate, he had been 
active and useful, and now his influence was felt in all the re- 
gions around. He was one of the four ministers, who were 
delegates in the Constitution, and were connected with the 
early history of the Central Association, and performed his full 
share of the labor which devolved upon them, in consequence 
of the great revivals which were experienced in that body in 
those times. Day and night, for weeks and months together, 
w T as. he engaged in protracted meetings. And yet he seemed 
to know no weariness. His person was tall and rather slender; 
his countenance exceedingly benign ; his voice musical, and his 
elocution easy and natural. As a public speaker he was 
always pleasant and sometimes powerful. His sermons were 
short and his exhortations animated. And then he could sing 
so sweetly ! All these things combined rendered him popular 
as a preacher, and especially qualified him as a revival preacher. 

In secular affairs, his attention was given mostly to farming 
and merchandise, in both of which callings he was quite suc- 
cessful. Indeed, his native good-sense, his sound judgment, his 
probity and his energy qualified him for almost any under- 
taking, and w T ould have been a guarantee of success in any 
business to which he might have turned his attention. 

The writer having been intimately associated with Callaway 
for several years as a member of the same church and Associa- 
tion, most heartily adopts and indorses the following notice of 
him, written by Eev. E. B. Teague for the " Christian Index :" 

' : Brought to a knowledge of the truth in early manhood, he 
soon consecrated himself to the service of the Master in the 



William A. Callaway. 373 

work of the ministry. Endowed with good abilities and unu- 
sual solicitude for souls, he overcame in a great measure the 
deficiencies of early training by making full proof of his minis- 
try in unwearied and incessant labors. He will long be remem- 
bered in Middle Georgia as the modest and amiable coadjutor 
of such men as Sherwood and Dawson, in the many labors by 
which they sought to build up the cause of Christ in the Cen- 
tral and neighboring Associations. Not the least of the ser- 
vices of this good man was the nerve manifested in the advo- 
cacy of the scriptural independence of the churches, assailed at 
one time in that region by the influence of eminent brethren. 
Though but a licentiate, he exhibited the calm courage of a 
veteran. It is interesting to read in this connection the spe- 
cial blessing of God on his ministry in the midst of obloquy 
and reproach. At a later period he labored with much earn- 
estness and success in Western Georgia. Few men have been 
the instrument in winning a larger number of souls to Christ. 

"His theory always was that a man must take care of his 
family, and that the necessary secularization is not incompati- 
ble with or opposed to the successful prosecution of the great 
work of preaching the gospel. Accordingly, he provided well 
for a very large family, and preached more than most men do. 
The estimable character of that large family is testimony to his 
uprightness, sincerity and wisdom. Perhaps most ministers, 
towards the close of life, if the}' do not indorse, yet look witli 
leniency on this theory. Unfortunate with all the rest of us of 
late years, his life and labors had so conciliated his acquaint- 
ance, that we trust those of his children who are yet young, 
and his beloved wife, will never want friends or a helping hand. 

"Brother Callaway was a man of marked traits of character. 
So sensitively pure and conscientious was he, that any appre- 
hension that his fellow-laborers were actuated by questionable 
motives, so damped and fettered him that he was unmanned. 
He read men's motives with unerring accuracy. On the other 
hand, unbounded confidence in those about him developed un- 
wonted energies and kindled him into unwonted fervors. 

" He was in theology a moderate Calvinist, and singularly free 
from all extravagance of views on all subjects — eminently a safe 
and prudent man. No man was more instinctively discreet in 



374 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

all tilings. He rarely or never did anything imprudent or ill- 
timed. Constitutional modesty often induced him, in our larger 
gatherings, to ■withhold the assistance for which his eminent 
wisdom fitted him. He was. therefore, less widely known than 
he deserved to be. In protracted meetings and associations he 
preferred a subordinate place, delighted if he might occupy 
himself in hortatory discourse after his brethren had preached, 
or when occasion offered in the conference and prayer meet- 
ings. On these occasions he often became the soul of the meet- 
ing, enchaining the riveted attention of his brethren and going 
right home to the conscience of the impenitent by the simpli- 
city, fervency and affectionateness of his address, backed by a 
confidence on their part that knew no limits. 

"No temptation could ever induce him to offer any strange 
fire before the Lord. He always spoke and acted just as he 
felt, in the pulpit and out of it. If cold, you could scarcely 
wring a word of exhortation or a sermon from him; if in sea- 
son, he manifested the utmost alacrity. Heartlessness and 
form froze up his spirit and sealed his lips. He felt powerfully 
that God is a spirit, and seeks such to worship him as worship 
in spirit and in truth. 

'•'His pulpit abilities were good, his address grave, decorous 
and tender. TTe often heard the remark that 'he was in 
preacher shape.' "With early training, exclusive occupation in 
the ministry and extensive reading, he might have been great. 

"But he is gone! — gone up to join 'the general assembly and 
church of the first born.' Distrustful of himself, and feeling 
the effects of late years, as he often said, of relaxation from the 
ministerial work in consequence of the partial failure of his 
voice and nervous derangement, he was much comforted during 
the last six months of his life, especially during his long and 
painful illness by clear and precious views of the adaptation 
of the Saviour to all our wants. Eetired upon his farm, in 
a neighborhood somewhat out of the way, he interested him- 
self very actively in the spiritual wants of his neighbors. 
They had become greatly attached to him. He was indeed 
beloved wherever he lived, confided in to the last degree, 'a 
living epistle, known and read of all men.' He passed away 
in quiet and holy triumph, lingering in memory with the 



John James. 375 

brethren with whom he had labored and to whom he was fondly 
attached. The writer records with inexpressible feelings the 
prayerful and tender interest in him and his. May the spirit 
of the father imbue his two sons in the ministry, Revs. S. P. 
and J. M. Callaway. Alas ! my brother, very pleasant hast 
thou been to me I" 

He was called to his reward in heaven in June, 1865. 



JOHN JAMES. 

The subject of this brief notice was endowed with natural 
gifts of a high order, and was during his short career one of the 
most successful country preachers in the State. He Avas born 
in Rockingham county, North Carolina, September 9th, 1809, 
and died October 9th, 1847, being thirty-eight years old. His 
father, Martin James, was a soldier in the war of 1812, was 
taken prisoner, and died at Fort Johnson. His mother's maiden 
name was Martha Woodall. She died in 1869, in the ninetieth 
year of her age. 

John James professed conversion at the age of twenty -four, 
and was baptized by Rev. Cyrus White at Teman church, 
Henry county, Georgia. He was subsequently ordained to the 
gospel ministry at said church in 1835, by what presbytery the 
author is not informed. Though his ministry was thus com- 
menced under those who were known as Whiteites, (and who 
were deemed as rather Arminian in sentiment,) he subsequent^ 
connected himself with the Central Association, in which body 
he was highly esteemed and eminently useful. 

He was engaged in the ministry only about twelve years, 
yet he baptized about sixteen hundred persons. His labors 
were confined mostly to the counties of Jasper, Butts, Henry, 
Newton and Campbell. His burning zeal impelled him forward 
day and night, summer and winter. His first sermon was 
preached under a bush-arbor in Gwinnett county, and from 
that day until he ceased from his labors was his voice heard in 
the highways and hedges, inviting a'nd urging the poor and 
needy to come to the gospel feast. It was by no means an un- 
common thing with him to work hard on his farm all day, and, 
leaving his horse to rest, to walk from three to four miles and 



376 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

preach to his neighbors at night, after which be would return 
home, and resume bis work in the morning. Of course no con- 
stitution could bear this tax very long, and so be fell, in the 
midst of his days, the victim of his consuming zeal and of the 
neglect (if not the cupidity,) of the people to whom he preached. 
The author is informed by one who had a right to know, that, 
' ; as a general thing, seventy-five dollars per annum was about 
the amount of salary he received." His last sermon was 
preached at Enon church, Jasper county, from Acts xx. 32 : 
<: And now, brethren, I commend you to God," etc. 

In October, 1830, he was married to 3Iiss Xancy Strickland, 
daughter of Colonel Solomon Strickland, of Henry county, who 
proved herself eminently qualified for the position she was 
called to occupy as a preacher's wife, and as the mother of six 
orphan children, which were left upon her hands by his death. 
"With some assistance from the Central Association, which she 
received for several consecutive years, she succeeded in com- 
fortably maintaining and educating her children, who all proved 
themselves worthy of the excellent parentage from which they 
descended, being highly deserving citizens. 

Mr. James was rather above the ordinary height, of an open, 
benignant countenance, possessed a voice of great compass and 
power, a fluent and ready delivery, and was. taken altogether, 
a most fascinating speaker and a powerful preacher. 

JOHX H. MIMTER 

It is matter of sincere regret that, for want of materials, so 
little can be recorded of this excellent man. If all the facts of 
his useful life, or any considerable portion of them, could be 
gathered up, they would doubtless form an entertaining and 
instructive volume. But, like most men of his day, he kept no 
record of his labors, so that we are left with the merest outline 
of his arduous life. 

He was born in Wilkes county, Georgia, July 24th, 1792, and 
died at his residence in Pike county, March 9th, 1857, in the 
sixty-fifth year of his age. He was the subject of strong re- 
ligious impressions in early youth, and was hopefully converted 
and baptized by Rev. Jesse ]VIercer into the fellowship of the 



John H. Milner. 377 

Sardis church, in his native county, in the sixteenth year of 
his age, of which church he was elected clerk soon thereafter. 
In the winter of 1816 and 1817, he removed, with his family, 
to Jones county, where he remained until 1824. His next re- 
moval was to Monroe county, where he became a member of 
Rocky Creek church, then under the pastoral care of that emi- 
nent and successful minister of Christ, Eev. John M. Gray. 
Towards the close of the great revival, which commenced in 1827 
and continued more than two years, (the most memorable that 
has ever occurred in the State,) Mr. Milner was licensed to 
preach the gospel, viz. : in the early part of 1829. With the 
zeal of the Apostolic days, he threw himself into the glorious 
work then in progress, preaching from house to house, among 
his neighbors, and wherever an effectual door was opened to 
him. God gave him seals to his ministry from the first, and 
many were brought into the fold through his instrumentality. 
He was ordained at Shiloh church, Monroe county, in May, 
1835, by a presbytery consisting of John Ross, Jonathan Nich- 
ols, Joseph Chipman and John Milner. In December of that 
year, he removed to Pike county, where he spent the remainder 
of his exemplary and useful life, restricting his labors mostly 
to that county, and to Monroe and Meriwether, though he oc- 
casionally sallied out into the regions around. No man was 
more noted for punctuality. He carried this habit — or virtue, as 
it deserves to be called — into all his arrangements, whether so- 
cial, religious or secular. Nothing but some providential inter- 
ference prevented his attention to family worship, to his church 
meetings, or to any business engagement with his fellow-men ; and 
he was always there at the appointed time. Surely his example, 
in this respect, is worthy of imitation. What a world of trou- 
ble would be prevented if all men, or even if all ministers, would 
govern themselves by the same rule ! He believed the " strong 
doctrines of grace," as they are called, which are taught in the 
scriptures, and which he had learned from Mercer, Marshall 
and others, under whose preaching he was brought up. He 
had a heart ever aglow with ivarm, practical benevolence, which 
flowed out in streams, not only to the needy around him, but 
also to the heathen, even to the ends of the earth. He ever 
felt the deepest interest in the cause of missions, especially of 



378 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

foreign missions. The poor Indians excited his sympathies and 
called forth his fervent prayers. Yet no man possessed" a more 
stem and inflexible character. No man was more firmly fixed in 
what he considered the principles of truth and righteousness than 
he. Faithfully did he serve his family, his generation and his 
God. 

At his own request, repeatedly made, both privately and pub- 
licly, his family had inscribed on his tombstone the words, U A 
sinner saved by grace." His death was sudden, resulting from a 
violent attack of sickness, of less than twenty-four hours con- 
tinuance, his last sermon having been preached only two days 
previously. He died triumphantly, with his armor on. Oh ! what 
a glorious death ! The author has a most vivid recollection of 
the last interview he had with John H. Milner. It was the clos- 
ing scene of the Flint River Association, at Griffin, the fall pre- 
ceding his death, the exercises of which were conducted by him. 
He seemed to have a presentiment that his end was at hand ; 
and that address, and that prayer — those trembling tones, and 
those weeping eyes, left impressions not soon to be obliterated. 

JOHN W. COOPEK. 

Elder John W. Cooper was born in Henry county, Virginia, 
January 17th, 1783, and, with the family, removed to Wilkes 
county, Georgia, in 1786. He united with the old Ebenezer 
church, and was baptized by Elder Jesse Mercer in 1805 ; some 
time afterwards, his membership was removed to Kehoboth 
church. In the winter of 1825 he removed to Monroe county, 
Georgia ; was a member of the Mount Pleasant church, where 
he was ordained as a minister of the gospel in 1826, Elder Davis 
Smith being one of the presbytery. In the winter of 1828 he 
removed to Harris county, Georgia, being one of the earliest 
settlers, which was soon after the purchase of the territory, 
from the Indians, lying between the Flint and Chattahoochee 
rivers. In a few months after this, he aided in the constitution 
of Sardis church, in the western part of the county, which was 
one of the first churches organized west of Flint river. He 
aided in the constitution of most of the churches in that im- 
mediate section of the State, as also in that which lay opposite 



John W. Cooper. 379 

in Alabama. He was a prime and active mover in the organi- 
zation of the Western Association, of which he was elected 
moderator in 1841, the introductory sermon of which session 
was preached by Elder Jesse Moon, the father of Miss Lottie 
Moon, now a missionary to China. He was re-elected annually, 
until his removal to Houston count} T , in the winter of 1848, and 
if my information be correct, was elected that year by acclama- 
tion, being the last session of that body he ever attended. He 
was present at the Georgia Baptist Convention in Marietta, in 
1850, at which the illness that ended his life began. Keturning 
home quite indisposed, he went to the monthly meeting of what 
was then Sandridge, now Factory church, Houston county, the 
first Sabbath in May, 1850, where he preached his last sermon. 
He died May 30th, 1850, with an abiding faith in the Saviour, 
whose glorious gospel he had preached more than fort} r years, 
his last words being, " O. that I could live to warn sinners ! " 

The education of the subject of this sketch was very limited. 
In his early life, neither means nor facilities were at his com- 
mand. As a minister, the Bible was almost his only book of 
study, and with it, as was common with Baptist preachers in 
his day, he was very familiar. His views were not warped by 
the sayings of men ; while he was solid as a rock in the doc- 
trines of grace and the ordinances of the gospel, and never 
compromised with error, he was never rash. In Western Geor- 
gia, where he spent most of his ministerial life, he abounded in 
labors. So far as remembered, he was never without four 
churches, and not unfrequently, to attend some of them, it re- 
quired from Friday morning till Monday night. It was rare, 
indeed, he ever failed to meet his appointments. As was not 
uncommon in those early times, he frequently made tours of 
preaching to destitute sections and regions beyond. His preach- 
ing was without much method, always abounding in scriptural 
language, truth and illustration. He was of tender heart, often 
affected to tears. His labors were greatly blessed, and large 
churches were built up under his ministry. One of his sons 
says that a prayer meeting was held in a private house, at 
which began a work of great power. The meeting was re- 
moved to old Mountain Creek church, near which he lived, and 
continued, without interruption, forty-five days, during which 



380 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

one hundred and sixty-three persons were added to the church, 
and that, too, when the country was thinly settled. 

Though rather emotional, he did not approve of noisy meet- 
ings. It is worthy of note, however, that on one occasion he 
was the subject of what was adjudged an unusual measure of 
the Holy Spirit's influence. It occurred at Beech Spring church, 
where he was aiding Elder George Granberry in a meeting of 
much interest. He had preached at the forenoon service, at the 
close of which his fapiily physician observed a peculiar appear- 
ance of countenance, and insisted that he should go into the 
'open air, which he declined, further than taking a seat upon 
the door-steps. In a moment, he began clapping his hands 
gently, and expressing himself as being very happy. He ex- 
horted every unrenewed person whom he saw, and at the house 
of a precious man, (Deacon Joel Hood,) he had every servant 
called to the bed upon which he lay, and urged upon them im- 
mediate repentance. The clapping of hands, (which seemed 
involuntary,) and the talking continued, without a moment's 
interruption, until a late hour of the night, when "tired na- 
ture" succumbed to sleep. In the morning he was quite re- 
stored, and said, the whole affair seemed as a dream. The 
writer witnessed the entire scene. He received but little for 
preaching. It is probable he never mentioned money to a 
church. I have heard him say a church to which he preached 
many years, and was not less than fifteen miles distant from 
him, never paid him enough to shoe his horse. At another, an 
old brother was approached by one of the deacons, who replied, 
"It is as much his business to preach as it is mine to go and 
hear;" and, doubtless, not a few are possessed with a like sen- 
timent to-day. 

His habits of industry and regularity would have secured him 
an abundance of this world's goods had he given himself to 
their acquisition. But he " chose rather to suffer affliction with, 
the people of God than enjoj^ the pleasures of sin for a season, 
esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treas- 
ures of the world." As a man, he always enjoyed the entire 
confidence of his acquaintances, which confidence was never 
abused. He paid his debts, was peaceable in society, never 
shirked responsibility, lived and died without a stain upon his 



J. H. T. Kilpatrick 381 

character. As a christian, he was prayerful — walked by faith 
rather than by sight — without pretension wholly, and with the 
exception named above, his religious life Was even, and his end 
peace. 

Rev. George F. Cooper, of Americus, one of the best and 
ablest men in the State, is a son of his. 



J. H. T. KILPATRICK. 

James Hall Tanner Kilpatrick, for about fifty-two years a 
minister of the gospel, was a native of North Carolina. He 
was born June 24th, 1793, in Iredell county, on the Yadkin 
river, seven miles northwest of Statesville. His ancestors were 
Scotch-Irish. They emigrated to this country two or three gen- 
erations before, and settled in what was then known as the " Jer- 
sey settlements." They were descendants of the old Covenan- 
ters, so famous in Scottish history; and, as might have been 
expected, were Calvinistic Presbyterians of the strictest sort. 

The immediate parents of Mr. Kilpatrick were Andrew Kil- 
patrick and Jane Nichols. They had ten children, and he whose 
life and labors now claim our notice was one of twin sons, the 
last children born to the parents, their mother dying within 
five days of their birth. Near the family residence was a Pres- 
byterian church, by the name of Bethairy, of which both parents 
were members, and the father a ruling elder. Here, in due 
time, the motherless little ones were carried, in order to do for 
them after the custom of the law of their fathers. Dr. James 
Hall, the regular pastor of the church, was the officiating min- 
ister. He was, at that time, somewhat advanced in life, and 
without children. So, before the so-called baptism, he proposed 
to the father that one of the twins be named for himself, prom- 
ising to assume the responsibility and expense of his education. 
As the doctor was held in very high regard by the whole fam- 
ily, consent was readily given ; and when the babes were brought 
forward, the subject of this sketch was chosen by him, and was 
accordingly named James Hall. The other was called Andrew, 
for his father. 

He began going to school when quite young. His first teach- 
er was a Mr. Ephraim Pharr, from whom he learned the ordi- 



382 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

nary English rudiments. A little incident of his early school 
life may not be devoid of interest: It was the custom of his 
teacher, after Dilworth's Spelling Book was completed, to take 
up the New Testament, in connection with the shorter Cate- 
chism, requiring so many questions to be learned every night, 
and recited the following morning. This task he so faithfully 
performed that he was soon promoted to the Bible. And as he 
was ,on his way to school, the morning after his promotion, 
carding quite a large Bible, (and he was still wearing frocks, 
not having been dignified with breeches) he was caught up and 
weighed, Bible and all, and the weight was just thirty-two 
two pounds. 

His first Latin school was taught by Rev. Thomas Hall, a 
nephew of Dr. James Hall. Thence he went to Dr. Joseph D. 
Kilpatrick, a cousin of his, who taught at Salisbury, in Rowan 
county, and next to Dr. Robertson, who taught the. Poplar-tent 
Academy, in Cabarrus county. 

Favored with these excellent facilities, young Kilpatrick made 
fine progress. His very proficiency, however, became the un- 
expected occasion of an obstacle in the way of further advance- 
ment. It appears that Dr. Hall, who up to this time had been 
bearing all the expenses of his education, had written, at some 
time, an English grammar. This grammar, either as text-book, 
or otherwise, came under the review of Dr. Hill's protege. The 
future man was foreshadowed in the youthful critic. His keen 
eye detected inaccuracies in the work, and he was incau- 
tious enough to expose them. His criticisms reached the ear 
of the now aged doctor — he became deeply offended, and from 
th'at time, declined to render his namesake any further assis- 
tance. 

For a brief period his educational prospects seemed quite 
dark. His father did not feel able to continue him at a classi- 
cal school, and no other would meet the wants of his growing 
mind. Though scarcely seventeen, he decided to strike out for 
himself, and as best he might, make his way on in the further 
advancement of his education. He very soon opened a school 
near the State line, his patrons being about equally divided be- 
tween Lincoln county, North Carolina, and York District, 
South Carolina. He taught here one year. Teaching others, 



J. H. T. Kilpatrick. 383 

he taught himself — his own education was made more thorough, 
and thus a better foundation secured for the future superstruc- 
ture. The next year he repaired to the Wellington Academy, 
Abbeville District. South Carolina, then taught by Dr. Moses 
"VYaddell. Here, under the guidance of this renowned instruc- 
tor of Southern youth, he continued for a year, pursuing his 
studies in the higher branches of learning, paying for his board 
and tuition, in whole or in part, by services rendered as assis- 
tant. 

After this year, Mr. Kilpatrick, though not yet nineteen, en- 
tered fully upon the active duties of life. A number of the 
young men in Dr. Waddell's school were from Natchez, Mis- 
sissippi ; and some of these desiring to return home about this 
time, he determined to go with them, and try his fortune in the 
far West. 

At that time, most of the country between the Oconee river, 
Georgia, and the Mississippi, was a trackless wilderness, inhab- 
ited only by Indians, and they were, then, in open rupture 
with the United States Government. A number of murders 
and other outrages had been committed already j all travel had 
ceased, except under the protection of a military force, and 
Mr. Kilpatrick and his young companions were earnestly and re- 
peatedly advised to desist from the hazardous undertaking. 
Nevertheless, they resolved to make the venture, having an old 
Indian trader for their guide. The presence of this trader, 
who was familiar with the Indian peculiarities, and, withal, had 
a large personal acquaintance among them, and was highly 
esteemed, doubtless s'aved the whole party from destruction. 
As it was, they made some narrow escapes. Among their 
number was a young man of fiery spirit, some of whose near 
relatives had but recently been murdered. His rashness came 
near, on several occasions, precipitating a collision, which, of 
course, would have ended in the death of the last one of them. 
Mr. Kilpatrick often alluded to this rash venture of his youth 
and always with expressions of gratitude to God. 

Having made his way safely through to Natchez, he remained 
there a short time with a friend of his, Mr. Alexander Pannell. 
Thence he went to Baton Kouge, Louisiana. Here, as princi- 
pal of the Baton Rouge Academy, just then established, he 



384 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

taught for about two years. From this place, he went to Nat- 
chitoches, where he opened a fine school, composed mostly of 
French and Spanish youth, who, besides the ordinary branches, 
wished especially to be taught the English language. He re- 
mained here until the British moved upon New Orleans. When 
that event occurred, the militia were ordered out en masse, and 
his school being largely made up of grown young men, was 
well nigh broken up. Though, as a school-teacher, he was not 
compelled to go, yet, desiring to share the fortunes of his 
pupils and his neighbors, as well as to serve his country, he 
promptly volunteered, and received the office of Orderly Ser- 
geant in the company of Captain Bloodgood. In this capacity, 
he served through the campaign around New Orleans, in the 
winter of 1814 and 1815, being present at the ever-memorable 
battle of the 8th of January, 1815. 

On his return from the army, he was taken very ill at Ope- 
lousas, of camp fever, and to all human appearance came near 
to death. God, however, had a work for him to do. He was 
soon to enter upon the hardships, conflicts and triumphs of a 
more glorious campaign than the one through which he had 
just passed. He was kept in life, and after three months, was 
so far restored to health that he went over to a new settlement 
on Bayou Beoff, called Cheneyville, and composed mostly of re- 
cent emigrants from Beaufort District, South Carolina. Here 
he opened a school and taught several years. And here, Feb- 
ruary 2d, 1816, he was married to Sarah Adeline Tanner, one 
of his pupils, and daughter of Eobert Tanner, Esq., a citizen of 
Cheneyville. 

While residing in this place, he was brought for the first time 
in close contact with the Baptists. A little Baptist church had 
been organized here a short time before, under the labors of 
.Revs. Ezekiel O'Quinn and Isham Nettles. Mr. Tanner, who 
subsequently became Mr. Kilpatrick's father-in-law, was a 
member of this church, and with him Mr. Kilpatrick had 
boarded from the time of his first coming among them. As 
these ministers often visited Mr. Tanner's family, of course he 
formed their acquaintance. As was natural, the subject of bap- 
tism sometimes came up for friendly, social discussion. Now, 
he had been raised among the Presbyterians, and had always 



J. H. T. Kilpatrich 385 

accepted, without scruple or question, the scripturalness of 
their tenets, and was particularly prejudiced against the Bap- 
tists as an ignorant and bigoted sect. Of course, then, in these 
fireside discussions he espoused with all the ardor of his nature 
the poedo-Baptist side,' and, being much better educated, was 
generally able to confuse and entangle his opponents. He soon 
became aware, however, as he afterwards confessed, that there 
was more truth on the Baptist side than he had hitherto sup- 
posed. During the year, and after his marriage, Mr. Kilpat- 
rick was hopefully converted. The question of baptism now 
became a practical one. Before, he was simply the partisan, 
anxious to defend the faith of his childhood — now, he is the 
humble inquirer, seeking after the right way. Was the baptism 
which he had received in unconscious infancy the baptism of 
God's word, or was it the invention of man? His appeal was 
to the New Testament. He studied it carefully and prayer- 
fully, not to find arguments to support a system, but to find 
out the l^ruth and the whole truth. As may be expected from 
such an investigation, he came to the firm conviction that in- 
fant baptism and sprinkling, or pouring, for baptism, are all 
alike utterly unknown to the word of God. His course was 
decided by his convictions. He joined the little Baptist church 
in Cheneyville, and was baptized by Ezekiel O'Quinn on Sun- 
day, June 22d, 1817. Yery soon after uniting with the church 
he began to preach the gospel, and on the 24th of August was 
licensed to preach. The date of his ordination is not known. 
In 1817, he had the privilege of assisting in the organization 
of the first Baptist Association beyond the Mississippi river — he 
being chosen the first clerk. 

In 1818, he gave up his school at Cheneyville and took charge 
of the Jackson Academy, in Amite county, Mississippi, fie 
here had a very flourishing school, composed mostly of young 
men, many of whom finished their academical studies under 
his instruction. Though quite an inviting field for usefulness, 
both as a teacher and a minister, opened before him in Missis- 
sippi, yet he remained only one year, being persuaded to return 
to Louisiana. Accordingly, he moved back to that- State, and 
took charge of the Academy at Alexandria, at the same time 
preaching to one or two churches. 
■ 25 



386 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

Mr. Kilpatrick's labors in Alexandria were brought to a sud- 
den and sad termination by the death of his wife. She died 
November 5th, 1820, at the birth of her second child, and she and 
her little one were buried in the same grave. Her first child, a 
son, Andrew Eobert Iulpatrick, still survives, and is, at this 
writing, a physician of eminence in the State of Texas. Her 
maiden name, it will be remembered, was Tanner, and this ac- 
counts for the T. in Mr. Hilpatrick's well known initials. Upon 
her death, according to an inheritance law then existing in 
Louisiana, as well, perhaps, as in accordance with his own wish 
to keep.in remembrance the beloved companion of his youth, 
he adopted the name of Tanner and retained it through life. 

The light of his household being extinguished, and business 
in connection with his father's estate (who had died, in 1813,) 
calling him to North Carolina, he determined, temporarily, at 
least, to leave Louisiana and visit the home of his childhood. 
Eut God was designing to send his servant to another and a 
broader field of usefulness. He never lived in Louisiana again. 
On his way to North Carolina, he concluded to go by Beaufort 
District, South Carolina, to see and form the acquaintance of 
his late wife's relatives, the Roberts, Lawtons, Gillisons and 
others, in and near Robertville. As he traveled, he preached 
from time to time, sending on, as well as he could, appoint- 
ments in advance. The Indians were still all over the country, 
but then there were numerous settlements of whites along his 
route, to whom the visit of the traveling minister was highly 
acceptable. 

As he approached Eobertville he sent on no more appoint- 
ments, but went unannounced. He reached the village just 
after night-fall, and was directed to the house of a leading Eap- 
tis*t, perhaps a deacon. On riding up to the gate, he saw by 
the moonlight a man walking back and forth, rather hurriedly, 
on the piazza. As soon as he hailed, the man walked quickly 
to the steps, and accosting him in a familiar and friendly tone, 
said, " Light, light, I am very glad that yon have come ; I've 
been waiting and watching for you for some time." Mr. Kil- 
patrick, much surprised, dismounted, remarking, however, " I 
am sorry to disappoint }'ou, sir ; but you are mistaken as to 
who I am. I am an entire stranger to you, having never met 



J". K T. Kilpatrick 387 

you before." "No matter, my brother," he replied, "I know 
you, and am very glad to see you." After entering the house 
and coming to the light, the man was asked to explain himself. 
He replied substantially as follows : " Our pastor, Eev. Heze- 
kiah A. Boyd, has just been compelled to leave us on account 
of his wife's health. We know not how long he will be absent 
from us, and we are very anxious to supply his place. I myself 
have been very earnestly praying God to send us a suitable 
person. Last night I had a plain view of yourself in my sleep. 
I was impressed that you were the man whom God intended to 
send us, and, moreover, that you would soon come. And as 
soon as I saw you ride up to the gate, I recognized you as the 
very person whom I had seen, and I felt that God had, sure 
enough, sent us a preacher. And now, sir, are you not a Bap- 
tist preacher ? Mr. Kilpatrick confessed, of course, that he 
was a Baptist and a preacher, but added that he was on his 
way to North Carolina, and only designed to stay in that place 
a few days, or a few weeks at furthest. The other spoke con- 
fidently, saying he was perfectly satisfied that God had heard 
his prayer and had sent them a supply. AYell, let the good 
deacon's vision be what it might, it was actually fulfilled. Mr. 
Kilpatrick, yielding to the importunities of the people, con- 
sented to remain. The visit to North Carolina was postponed 
indefinitely. And here, as supply to the Black Swamp church, 
and as missionary to some of the surrounding country, he con- 
tinued for about twelve months, his labors being, perhaps, more 
largely blessed than during any other one year of his ministry. 
The unexpected detention at Eobertville was one link in the 
chain of providences which finally brought Mr. Kilpatrick to 
Georgia. In the *fall of that year, he attended the Savannah 
Biver Association, and there made the acquaintance of Jesse 
Mercer and Elisha Perrvman. Meeting with these Georgia 
ministers opened the way for a preaching tour through some of 
the counties of that State. While on this trip, he preached at 
Buckhead church, in Burke county, then under the care of 
John Stanford. Here he met Miss Harriet Eliza Jones, a lady 
of wealth, refinement and great piety. She had refused many 
excellent offers of marriage, having determined to live a life of 
celibacy, and devote her money, her time and her labor to the 



388 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

promotion of religion and the relief of the poor and distressed. 
She knew nothing of Mr. Kilpatrick — had scarcely heard his 
name, but when he rose in the pulpit to begin the service, she 
was almost overwhelmed with her feelings, for, as she after- 
wards said, she was powerfully impressed with the belief that 
the strange minister before her was to be her husband. And 
so it was: they were married June 23d, 1822. 

After Mr. Kilpatrick's marriage, he determined to make Geor- 
gia his future home, and accordingly settled in Burke county, 
about fourteen miles south of Waynesboro'. Subsequently, for 
the sake of health, he removed his family to the county of Bich- 
montl, about fourteen miles south of Augusta. His planting in- 
terests still remained in Burke. Coming into Georgia, of course 
he was an entire stranger, but his genial disposition, refined 
manners, together with the high social position of his wife, 
constituted a happy introduction to the community and the 
surrounding country. Besides, he embraced frequent opportu- 
nities of enlarging his acquaintance in the denomination by 
attending the Associations, general meetings, and other gather- 
ings of his brethren, at once identifying himself, both in sym- 
pathy and in effort, with the Mercers, the Brantlys, and' other 
noble spirits of that generation, and at once taking a high posi- 
tion among theim 

Mr. Kilpatrick's immediate and special field of labor lay 
within the bounds of the Hephzibah Association. Here he 
worked the most, here he worked the hardest, and here he 
achieved his most signal successes. In 1822, he was present, 
for the first time, at one of the annual sessions of this body, the 
meeting being that year at Koeky Creek church. He was pres- 
ent only as a spectator; and, truly, there was much to be seen, 
which was not at all suited to impress his mind favorably with 
reference to his future work. The Association was at this time 
bitterly anti-missionary. For several years, their hostility to 
missions. had been increasing. In 1819, it was "agreed not to 
correspond" any more "With the Foreign Mission Society," or 
Board. In 1821, a letter was presented from this Board, but a 
" majority of the brethren refused to have it read." The pres- 
ent year, (1822) another letter was presented, and this time by 
the hands of that prince of refinement and christian courtesy, 



J. H. T. Kilpatrieh 389 

the elder William T. Brantly, then pastor of the Augusta Bap- 
tist church. So far from being willing to have the letter read, 
they would not let it even lie on the table, but actually threw 
it under the table. When the proposition to throw the letter 
under the table was put, the vote was taken by rising, and one 
brother, (who, by the way, was quite large and heavy,) to show 
the heartiness of his approbation, not only rose to his feet, but, 
wonderful to tell, leaped from the floor, coming down flat-footed, 
with all his weight, making a tremendous noise, and jarring 
every plank and beam of the frail tenement where they were 
sitting. The vote being taken, the letter was forthwith thrown 
under the table ; and the one who performed this duty, dashed 
it to the floor with as much vehemence and venom as if it had 
been a missive from the lower regions. But the scene Avar- not 
yet over: the letter under the table, another brother, or per- 
haps the same one who had just given such a remarkable vote, 
felt called upon to give Dr. Brantly a lecture, telling him, 
among other things, that he was engaged in a low. mean, se k- 
ing business; that this missionary abomination was like a cat 
with nine lives — they thought they had killed it ! and kill ?1 it ! 
and killed it! and, lo ! here it had come poking up again ! but 
now they had made sure work of it, and that if he kne 
was for his good, he would leave, and never show himself in 
that body again. During this denunciation, the speaker was 
flourishing, in a very threatening manner, a large, knotted, 
hickory stick, oftentimes bringing it almost down to Brantly's 
head. 

The foregoing is not overdrawn, the writer confesses hii If 
unable to recall full}' the exceedingly graphic details as he has 
frequently heard them from Mr. Kilpatrick's own lips. 

The reader may well suppose that after such an < 
as this, Mr. Kilpatrick would certainly have given up the Heph- 
zibah Association as a hopeless case. Not so, however, he de- 
termined, by God's help, to win them back to the old paths. 
He was satisfied that many of these opposers of missions were 
christians, and he knew that all christians are missionary in 
heart. His first work was to become acquainted with the peo- 
ple and preach to tbem the gospel in its entirety. Ee thus 
hoped to secure a base for further operations. 



390 Georgia Baptists— Biographical. 

"When the Association met next year, he was there as a dele- 
gate from the Buckhcad church. He at once identified himself 
with them, being appointed upon various committees, and re- 
ceiving appointment as correspondent to various sister Associa- 
tions. "When the time came to appoint the preacher for the 
next introductory sermon, he received the position. And the 
next year rolling round, he presented a powerful discourse 
upon the doctrine of justification, particularly referring to the 
apparent antagonism between James and Paul, and, of course, 
taking occasion to show the importance of good works, and 
the relation of human instrumentality to the progress of the 
gospel. In the meantime, publicly and privately, he was en- 
deavoring to enlighten the minds of the people with reference 
to missions, but in such a way as to excite no needless opposi- 
tion or prejudice. He mingled freely with the people at their 
firesides and at their churches particularly, directing their 
minds to the fact that while God has purposes which he will 
most assuredly accomplish, he works through human agency. 

From time to time, he had the satisfaction of seeing one and 
another coming over to the truth. Some, indeed, had been 
all the time favorable to missions, but they had not the cour- 
age to take a decided stand that way. Having a leader and a 
spokesman, they now became more bold. About this time 
(1825,) Joshua Key joined the church at Brushy creek, Burke 
county, and was soon thereafter licensed to preach, and in 182G 
was ordained. He warmly espoused the mission cause, and 
was thenceforth one of Mr. Kilpatrick's warmest friends and 
most zealous coadutors. In 1825, thinking, perhaps, that the 
time had come for a demonstration, Mr. Kilpatrick induced the 
Buckhead church, and through Mr. Key, the Brushy creek 
church, to send up petitions to the Association to the effect 
tliat they " send messengers to the General Association, to view 
their order," etc. Being, however, providentially called away 
to Louisiana, he was unable to be present when the Association 
met, and the petitions were summarily rejected. Not only this, 
but taking advantage of his absence, and having an eye to his 
future movements, the opposition endeavored to checkmate 
him by inserting into the decorum the following : 

" This Association shall have no right to correspond by letter 



J. H. T. Kilpatrick 391 

or messenger with any General Association or committee, mis- 
sionary society or board. Any brother moving either of the 
•above subjects in this body shall be considered in disorder, and 
therefor reproved by the moderator." This was certainly car- 
rying matters with a high hand. 

On returning home and learning what had been done, noth- 
ing daunted, he immediately set to work to repair the damage. 
By the setting of the next Association in 1826, he had succeeded 
in getting so many of the churches to ask for the rescinding 
of the objectionable article, that it was done by a decisive ma- 
jority. A short while after this, perhaps in 1827 or 1828, Mr. 
Kilpatrick wrote his " Plain Dialogue on Missions." It was 
intended primarily and principally fc*r the Hephzibah Associa- 
tion. On being published, however, it was found to meet such 
a general want throughout the country, that it was adopted by 
the General Tract Society as one of its tracts, and was subse- 
quently incorporated in a volume, entitled the "Baptist Man- 
ual," along with tracts and standard pieces from Andrew Fuller, 
Booth, Pengilly, and others. This " Plain Dialogue" was an 
efficient co-worker in the good cause, exerting a most salutary 
influence upon the pious and candid wherever it was read. 

The various means and efforts were so far successful, that in 
1830 "it was decided by a large majority that we visit the 
brethren of the Convention at their next meeting, as specta- 
tors." The next year, having heard the report of the brethren 
who went to the Convention, the Association passed the follow- 
ing : "Resolved, unanimously, that this Association correspond 
by letter with the Baptist General Convention." In 1835 the 
Association met at .Rocky creek, the very church where thir- 
teen years before such extravagant anti-mission demonstrations 
were witnessed. At this meeting a resolution was passed rec- 
ommending the churches to take into serious consideration the 
propriety of joining the Convention, and to report at the next 
session. The churches reported as requested, and it was re- 
solved, " That this Association become a component member of 
the Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia." 

Thus, after years of labor and trial, Mr. Kilpatrick had the sat- 
isfaction of seeing this old Association brought into cheerful co- 
operation with their brethren in other parts of the State. Dur- 



392 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

ing the progress of the afore-recited straggle, he as the leader, 
was compelled to encounter much bitter personal opposition ; the 
prejudices of the poor and ignorant were often arrayed against 
him. Often misunderstood, as a consequence, he was often mis- 
represented. Brethren, who afterwards became his friends and 
supporters, confessed that they once thought they were doing 
God service in trying to put him down. A single illustration : 
Once duringthis time, while out on a preaching excursion, he 
called to stay all night at a house where he was not known. 
On announcing his name, the man of the house exclaimed, 
" What! are you the Kilpatriek who is going about preaching 
such abominable doctrines, and doing so much mischief to the 
churches?" And was clearly unwilling to receive him, but 
finally consented. During the evening, Mr. Kilpatriek so di- 
rected the conversation as measurably to disarm the prejudices 
of his well-meaning but ignorant brother ; so much so that, be- 
fore retiring, he was asked to lead the devotions of the family, 
and the request wa3 repeated the next morning. These oppor- 
tunities were, of course, well improved. In short, before the 
visit terminated, the victory was complete. Just as he was 
about to leave, the man said to him, " Brother Kilpatriek," (he 
would not brother him at first,) " did you know that when you 
called yesterday, I felt like I would just as soon have a rattle- 
snake to enter my house as for you to do it? " 

Almost coincident in time, and also in respect to the parties 
engaged, was Mr. Kilpatrick's struggle on the temperance ques- 
tion. He found that the opposers of missions were almost in- 
variably opposers of temperance. He had, therefore, all along, 
to fight a kind of double battle, against a double enemy — anti- 
temperance and anti-missions — depraved appetites on the one 
hand, and on the other, covetousness and anti-nomianism. A 
faithful record of his experience in this department of moral 
effort would furnish an interesting and even thrilling story. 
Suffice it to say, that while he did not oppose the various secret 
temperance organizations which, from time to time, sprang up, 
he did not join any of them. He worked through the churches-, 
and the Xew Testament furnished the weapons of his warfare. 
Moreover, recognizing the potency of a good example, and find- 
ing, very early in the struggle, that total abstinence was the 



J. H. T. Kilpatrich 393 

safest ground, and most consistent with the christian profession, 
as well as most favorable for successful effort against the enemy, 
he promptly established himself upon it. Whether he con- 
demned the use of ardent spirits as a medicine, is not remem- 
bered; so far as his own family was concerned, he most certainly 
never used it. As for himself, for the space of forty years, it is 
supposed not one drop of the article ever passed his lips, and 
even in his last illness, when stimulants were deemed necessary, 
he utterly refused this. And, as a proof of his success in keep- 
ing it out of his family, it may be mentioned that he raised 
children to manhood and womanhood who knew not the taste, 
looks or smell of ardent spirits of any kind. 

Mr. Kilpatrick was eminently fitted to obey the injunction, 
" earnestly contend for the faith." This seemed to be his special 
gift, arid he found ample opportunity to exercise it. During all 
the period of his active ministry, he was the universally recog- 
nized defender of Baptist faith and practice for a very large 
scope of country, embracing some of the oldest settled, weal- 
thiest and most influential portions of the State. 

No sooner was the anti-mission and anti-temperance war over, 
and perhaps before the din of arms had entirely ceased, than 
there arose a new trouble. The prophet of Bethany, Alexander 
Campbell, had been for some time scattering over the country 
his peculiar notions. Mr. Kilpatrick's discerning eye quickly 
pierced the dextrously- wrought disguise, and discovered the 
true features of the so-called " christian system." And so vig- 
orously and wisely did he combat the heresy, that, although 
some of their strongest men were working against him, so far 
as the Hephzibah Association was concerned, the vaunted re- 
formation met a signal defeat. His efforts in the Hephzibah 
were nobly seconded in other parts of the State. Able and 
faithful men everywhere stood up valiantly for the truth. And 
as the result of the whole, under God, the Georgia churches 
were almost entirely preserved from the inroads of this plausi- 
ble but dangerous delusion. When we behold what sad conse- 
quences have ensued elsewhere, we bless God for raising up 
such men. 

This sketch would not be complete without noticing, briefly 
at least, Mr. Kilpatrick's connection with the baptismal contro- 



394 Georgia Baptists — Biographical, 

versy. All gospel ministers find more or less occasion to discuss 
the subject of baptism. Peculiar circumstances made this pe- 
cnliarty his duty. For a long series of years, he was the only 
Baptist minister in the region of country where he labored who 
had been favored with a classical education. If he had remained 
silent, the cause must have suffered. But he was not silei-t. 
As opportunity offered, publicly and privately, he boldly and 
successfully contended for the faith. His reputation in this re- 
spect, however, is chiefly associated with a controversy which 
took place in 1842 and 1843. In July, 1842, at a general meet- 
ing, he preached a sermon, the greater part of which was on 
baptism. This sermon, both by its original delivery, as well as 
its subsequent publication, having produced quite a stir in cer- 
tain quarters, the Quarterly Conference of the Methodist Epis- 
copal church, for the Burke circuit, requested Mr. J. J. Triggs, 
one of their leading ministers, to answer it. His reply was 
forthwith masterly reviewed by Mr. Kilpatrick, and the subject 
still further discussed. Mr. Triggs having ventured another 
reply, Mr. Kilpatrick again took up his pen, going over the 
whole ground and discussing the subject more exhaustively 
than ever. This ended the controversy ; its good effects, how- 
ever, still live. All that Mr. Kilpatrick published, in the ser- 
mon and the two reviews, would make quite a volume. 

Lack of space prevents a further account, in detail, of Mr. 
Kilpatrick's useful life. We might notice his connection with 
the Baptist educational interests of Georgia. In 1829, at Mil- 
ledgeville, he, in conjunction with Mercer, Sanders, Sherwood 
and others, promptly raised the 82,500 00 necessary to secure 
the Penfield legacy ; this was the inception of Mercer Univer- 
sity. The last considerable benefaction of his life was the do- 
nation of lands upon which to locate the Hephzibah High 
School. We might speak, also, of his connection with the Bap- 
tist State Convention, upon whose sessions, as representative of 
the Hephzibah Mission Society, he was a faithful and valued 
attendant, up to the time of getting his Association to join that 
body. From this time, for various reasons, his attendance was^ 
not regular, though occasionally he was present, even up to old 
age. And we might mention his labors in other Associations, 
particularly the Middle, lying south of the Hephzibah, when, 



J. H. T. Kilpatrick. 395 

in connection with the devoted M. M". McCall, he was mainly 
instrumental in rescuing those churches from the meshes of the 
anti-mission schism ; but space forbids more than these brief 
notes. As showing, however, how large a proportion of the 
business of his own immediate Association centered upon and 
around him, the following incomplete summary is introduced : 
In 1824, the first year after joining the body, he preached the 
introductory sermon, and in 1829, both- preached the introduc- 
tory and wrote the circular letter. In 1832, and, also, in 1836 he 
preached the introductory. In 1835. the Association began the 
mission sermon on Sunday, he receiving the first appointment. 
In 1839, he preached the mission sermon, and again in 1812. In 
1843, the circular; in 1844, the introductory; in 1847, the cir- 
cular and the introductory; in 1848, the mission sermon, and in 
1849, the circular; in 1851, the mission sermon, and in 1854, the 
introductory; the circular in 1857, and the introductory in 1858. 
In addition to the foregoing duties, he was for many years mod- 
erator, for many years treasurer, and for a number of years 
either clerk, or assistant clerk. Besides serving upon the ordi- 
nary committees, he was almost invariably put upon any special 
committees which might be raised, and that, sometimes, when 
he was moderator, the Association insisting that they could not 
dispense with his services. Now, when it is remembered that 
he was a man noted for modesty, never, never pushing himself 
forward, such a record as the above gives unmistakable proof 
of real worth, as well as of the high regard in which he was 
held by his brethren. 

After the date last mentioned in the foregoing summary, 
(1858,) feeling that he had been spared to accomplish the lead- 
ing objects of his life, and realizing the encroachments of age, 
he measurably retired from active duty — not, however, until he 
had the satisfaction of seeing rising up around him a number 
of pious and faithful young ministers, in whose charge, by God's 
blessing, he felt that the cause of truth and holiness would be 
safe, among whom were two of his sons. 

In 1863, he was sorely bereaved in the death of his second 
wife — the faithful companion of more than forty years pilgrim- 
age. She died March 16th, in full prospect of a blessed immor- 
tality. After her death, he seemed to live in daily expectation 



396 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

of his own. Though still taking a deep interest in the pros- 
f Zion, he seldom attended the larger gatherings" of his 
brethren. He was faithful, however, in his attendance at God's 
house, though not often taking part in the service. Occasion- 
ally, it is true, the smouldering fires would kindle into a flame, 
and forgetting his age and infirmities, he would pour forth his 
soul in the impassioned utterances of former years, to the great 
ight and edification of his hearers. From day to day, he 
ripened for the skies. His path was as that of the just, which 
"shineth more and more unto the perfect? day." His hold on 
earth gradually loosened, and his affections, like entwining ten- 
drils, grasped more firmly the unseen and the heavenly. God 
had granted him life, and honor, and worldly blessing, far be- 
yond his expectation, and, according to his testimony, far beyond 
his desert. He had lived to see all of his younger set of chil- 
dren grown and married, and settled in life — his three, daughters 
heads of Baptist families, and his two sons miuisters of the gos- 
pel. In 1854, when about to lay the hand of ordination upon 
the head of his 3'oungest son, (and youngest child,) he said, 
with much emotion, fi Twenty-one years ago, I felt that if God 
would only spare my life to see this son raised, and educated, 
and converted, I should die content ; and, lo ! he hath permitted 
me to welcome him into the ministry of the gospel.'' Yes, life's 
labor accomplished, and its warfare over, he was ready to go. 
With the opening of the .year 1869, his convictions of a 
. speedy departuie became more vivid. He was not mistaken. 
Almost without any sickness, with no special pain, and rational 
to the last, he finished his course, January 9th, 1869. His last 
words were, k ' ; Precious Jesus ! " saying which, he seemed to fall 
asleep, and so passed away. 

From a brief memorial, written a short time afterwards by 
Eev. E. R. Carswell, a minister of the Hephzibak Association, 
the following is taken : " Rev. J. H. T. Kilpatriek was no ordi- 
nary man. He was endowed with an intellect massive and an- 
alytical. As a preacher, he was always instructive, and would 
sometimes enchain you for two or three hours by his eloquence. 
His power in the pulpit could not be appreciated by those who 
only heard him during the last twenty years of his life. As a 
writer, he was always accurate, forcible and'clear. His contro- 



J. H. T. Kitpatrick ' . 397 

versy on baptism amply vindicates his claims as a man of learn- 
ing, research and ability. He was not as extensively known to 
the denomination as his talents would seem to warrant. We, 
who knew him best, feel, of course, more sensibly our great 
loss." 

The following is the latter part of a short sketch which ap- 
peared in the Minutes of the Hephzibah Association for 1869, 
and was written by General G-. W. Evans, a member of that 
body : 

"As a citizen, he was quiet, retiring and unobtrusive ; as a 
man, open, honest and unsuspecting; as a friend, true but un- 
demonstrative; as a parent, faithful to the high trust commit- 
ted to his hands; as a'" pastor, laborious and constant, always 
punctual to his appointments, never having disappointed a con- 
gregation in the whole course of his protracted ministry; as a 
preacher, he was logical and profound, and when aroused, often- 
times sublimely eloquent ; as a writer and controversialist, ho 
was true, accurate and resistless ; as a christian, uniform and 
faithful; and in his expiring moments, as if to seal the holy 
record of his life with his dying testimony, his last words were, 
1 Precious Jesus !' 

" Such, brethren, is the brief and imperfect record of the man 
now gone to his reward, who, before many of us were born, be- 
came, by the power of his intellect, we might almost say, the 
father of this Association; and who, by pen and lip, aided by 
our brother, the late Eev. Joshua Key, was the main instru- 
ment of building up the missionary interest among us, and who 
for years was the triumphant defender of our peculiar views 
and the eloquent vindicator of our denominational honor. 

" Gifted with a massive intellect and an iron constitution, he 
literally wore but in the service of his Master. We deem it no 
injustice to the living or the dead, to express our honest con- 
viction that in his death is extinguished the brightest intellec- 
tual light which it has ever been our pride to honor." 



398 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

William singleton. 

William Singleton was born at or near Northampton, Eng- 
land, in the year 1830. His father was a mechanic, but by his 
Bkill, industry and economy, amassed sufficient property to 
leave his widow in comfortable circumstances. William was 
brought up to tbe trade of cabinet making, and soon became 
skillful in his business. His education was limited to the ordi- 
nary branches of English — reading, writing, arithmetic and 
geography. When he reached the age of twenty, he emigrated 
with his chest of tools to America, and, after spending some 
time in New York and other cities, at length located in Au- 
gusta, Georgia. 

His life for several years was a mixture of business and pleas- 
ure. His wages were good, but he spent them freely and saved 
but little. He married and had two children. During the pas- 
torship of Mr. Eyerson he was brought under the power of the 
gospel and professed a change of heart. That the change was 
real and radical, was manifest to all who knew him. The death 
of his wife and children successively deepened the impressions 
of his call to the ministry, and removed the earthly obstacles 
to his consecration to the work. 

Having been licensed by the Greene Street Baptist church 
in Augusta, he entered Mercer University to study for the min- 
istry in June, 1862, and continued there, diligently and suc- 
cessfully pursuing his studies, until his death in November, 
1864. 

In the meantime, his life was not that of a mere student. 
Many of the settled ministers having gone to the army as chap- 
lains or missionaries, the churches at home called for the ser- 
vices of the younger men. Singleton was first called to serve 
the church at Friendship, then Macedonia, and afterwards at 
Shiloh, all in Greene county. To these churches he preached 
with acceptance and success, having been ordained in Augusta 
in January, 1863. 

Eev. N. M. Crawford says : " My first acquaintance with 
brother Singleton was at a prayer meeting in Augusta, where 
I was favorably struck by his earnestness in prayer, and by the 
remark of brother Frank Swanson, at that time temporarily 



Jonathan Davis. 399 

supplying the church, < He is the most spiritual member of the 
church.' His mind was good, rather solid than showy. His 
feelings were tender, his sympathies easily flowing, and, at the 
same time, deep, his faith strong, his hope firm, and his conse- 
cration unaffected and unfaltering. He was remarkable for 
what was called 'a gift in prayer,' of which an explanation 
may be found in a statement he once made to me, in the unre- 
serve which marked our intercourse as instructor and pupil. 
Said he, 'I read from Paul, covet the best gifts, but I show 
unto you a more excellent way ; and I thought there was 
nothing better for a child of God than to have nearness of ap- 
proach to the mercy seat in prayer ; and so I thought I would 
covet that, and ask G-od to give me the grace of prayer.' " 

His death was caused by a violent attack of malignant bilious 
fever, which event occurred at the house of the venerable 
Thomas Stocks, from whom and his wife he received every at- 
tention, as, indeed, their house had been his home from his first 
coming to Penfield. 



JONATHAN DAVIS. 

In attempting to perpetuate the memory of the worthy dead, 
the author of this work has frequently been reminded of that 
scripture : " For what is your life? It is even a vapor that ap- 
peareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away." The ma- 
terial for a history of even the great and gifted — of men who 
occupy a large space in the. public eye, and who exert a power- 
ful influence while living — are often found to be exceedingly 
meager when they have passed away. Such is the case with 
reference to Jonathan Davis — one of the most gifted men the 
State has ever produced, and, for many years, one of the most 
popular and successful preachers. Though so little can be said 
of him now, it is deemed proper to record his name at least, on 
that roll of worthies, whose labors and sacrifices have done so 
much for the cause of truth and righteousness in the land. 

He was born in Wilkes county, G-eorgia, in 1798, near the 
church called Clark's Station, and was a son of Rev. William 
Davis, whose name also appears in these pages. At what age 
he was converted we are not informed, though it is believed to 



400 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

have been while he was yet young, lie was baptized by his 
father, and soon thereafter commenced preaching. Soon after 
his ordination, he took charge of a small church in Elbert 
county, which had barely a nominal existence, and which had 
been on the eve of dissolution for years. A gracious revival 
was soon experienced, and the membership was increased to 
upwards of a hundred. About the year 1829, he became pas- 
tor of the church at Crawfordville, where he resided for years, 
and where the greatest success crowned his labors. The 
church enjoyed a succession of revivals, during which hun- 
dreds were converted and baptized. The blessed influence ex- 
tended to the neighboring churches, which also experienced 
great prosperity. It is related of him, that he baptized sixty 
on a certain Sabbath morning at Bethesda church, Greene coun- 
ty. A Presbyterian lawyer took note of the time which was 
occupied in the ceremony, which was only fifteen minutes. He 
declared that, at that rate, the apostles could have baptized 
the three thousand on the day of Pentecost in one hour — 
"And he went on his way," still 'a Presbyterian. During a por- 
tion of the time of his residence at Crawfordville, he also 
served the Antioch and Sugar creek churches in Morgan county, 
in both of which his ministry was eminently successful. A 
gentleman informed the writer that he saw him baptize, on a 
certain Sabbath, at the latter church, upwards of seventy can- 
didates, and the writer himself was present in a revival at the 
former church when he baptized more than eighty. There 
was no duty in which he delighted more than in administering 
baptism. Long before his ministry ceased, it was claimed that 
he had baptized upwards of three thousand souls, which was 
no doubt true. 

The temperance cause, which, for a series of years, occupied 
much of public attention, and excited much interest, found in 
Mr. Davis an ardent friend, and an eloquent advocate. In fact, 
there was no cause involving the interests of his fellpwmen, to 
the support of which he did not bring all the ardor of his na- 
ture and all the gifts of oratory, with which he was so highly 
endowed. He threw his whole soul into the support of the 
objects of our State Convention, especially the improvement 
of the rising ministry. His own educational opportunities hav- 



Jonathan Davis, 401 

ing been quite limited, he left nothing undone that would con- 
tribute to the advantage of the young ministers rising up 
around him. He accordingly made provision for the board and 
tuition of several young brethren at Crawfordville, where he 
resided, as will be seen by reference to the records of the State 
Convention. This arrangement was continued for some years. 
Among those who reaped the benefits of it was Jesse Moon, 
father of the Misses Moon, now missionaries in China, him- 
self a man of no mean ability. While Mercer University was 
yet in its obscure and peurile infancy, struggling to maintain a 
mere existence, he traveled extensively to raise funds for its 
endowment, and to secure pupils for its halls. 

He was of an exceedingly kind and catholic spirit. He was 
not a man of strife, but a man of peace. He delighted in being 
a peace-maker. The writer remembers several instances in which 
he labored for days, and labored successfully, to reconcile 
brethren who had been long estranged from each other ; and 
then, how tears of gratitude would stream down his cheeks 
when he would see them once more united in the love of Christ. 

About the year 1842, and before fanaticism had blinded the 
eyes and subverted the reason of our Northern neighbors, he 
visited that section, lectured, and had several public discussions 
on the subject of slavery. In Boston he had a debate with Na- 
thaniel Colver, the chosen leader of the Abolitionists, lasting 
two days, at the close of which he took the vote on Colver, 
who was defeated on his own field, and that, too, by a large 
majority. At Hamilton, New York, the seat of their Theologi- 
cal Seminary, he had a similar discussion, in which he was also 
triumphant. Wherever he went, he received marked atten- 
tions from the most distinguished men of the country, and was 
spoken of in the highest terms by their leading journals. 

He was a man of strong faith. " Have faith in God." A 
friend relates the following : " On one occasion I was at Mr. 
Davis' house when he returned from visiting a friend who was 
1 sick nigh unto death.' The attending physician and friends 
had lost all hope, and were standing about his bed, expecting 
that every moment would be his last. Under these circum- 
stances Mr. Davis entered the sick chamber, asked a few ques- 
tions and knelt in prayer, soon after which he left. Upon his 
26 



402 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

return home, I inquired about the sick man, and he replied in 
substance, 'He is very sick indeed, and I believe he would have 
died if I had not entreated the Lord that he might live. But 
I have faith that he has graciously heard my prayer, and feel 
assured that he will recover.' In a few days his expectation 
was verified, and he who was considered sick beyond recovery 
was restored to health. 'The prayer of faith shall save the 
sick.' He had other similar experiences in the course of his 
ministry." 

In the year 1835, while yet in the zenith of his popularity 
and usefulness, he removed from Crawfordville, with several 
prominent families from the same region, and settled in the vil- 
lage of Palmyra, on Kinchafoonee creek, in Lee county. Here 
he spent many years in active ministerial labors, which were 
crowned with abundant success in founding and building up 
churches, and in giving the Baptists a prestige in that section 
which they have never lost. He received active sympathy and 
liberal support from the intelligent and pious men who emigra- 
ted with him to that region — the Janes', Mercers, and others of 
the same class — and from those who were brought into the 
kingdom through his instrumentality. Here, also, he raised a 
large family, many of whom, or their children, reside in South- 
western Georgia, and all of whom occupy respectable positions 
in society, and are faithful adherents of the faith so ably advo- 
cated by their worthy sire. 

It would be pleasant to close this narrative here, but the 
truth of history demands that we go further. For several 
years, rumors, unfavorable to the moral character of Mr. Davis, 
obtained currency, and cast a dark shadow over his hitherto 
brilliant career. Under this state of things, he left Georgia 
and located in lower Alabama, but did not escape the troubles 
which had well nigh already crushed him. In his new home, 
other and similar rumors arose, upon which he was arraigned 
before his church, tried, and, upon what was believed by many 
entirely insufficient testimony, was excluded from the church 
and deposed from the ministry. He did not resist the authority 
of the church, nor attempt to produce a schism, nor draw off a 
party in his own support, as many other preachers have done, 
and as he, no doubt, could have done. He submitted, trusting 



Jesse M. Davis\ 403 

that a faithful G-od would one day wipe out the reproach thus 
brought upon his own cause, and vindicate the character of his 
servant. (The then pastor of the church, Rev. Sanders Den- 
nard, afterwards missionary to Africa, was understood to be 
decidedly opposed to their action in his exclusion, and to have 
used all his influence to prevent it.) 

Mr. Davis did not remain long a citizen of Alabama, but re- 
turned to Georgia and settled in his old neighborhood in Lee 
county. Years passed away — sad years to him — when the 
church in Alabama by which he had been excluded, of its own 
accord (and without any request from him or his friends,) re- 
considered his case, rescinded their action in his exclusion, re- 
stored him to fellowship and to the ministry, and sent him 
written testimonials of these facts; upon which he was received 
into a church in the Bethel Association, (perhaps the church 
at Albany,) resumed the work of the ministry, lived several 
years in good repute, and was gathered, in his old age, as a 
shock of corn fully ripe into the garner of the Lord. He died 
in 1869. 

It is not pretended that Mr. Davis was free from faults and 
foibles. Not many faultless characters are found on earth. 
But it is believed that the testimony of his life proved him to be 
a good man. If he had faults, let them be buried with him in 
the grave, and let his virtues only be remembered. If the Bap- 
tists were as careful of the reputation of their ministers as are 
other denominations, it may be that the dark cloud which over- 
shadowed him for a time would have been dispersed before it 
was formed. 

JESSE M. DAYIS. 

The subject of this sketch was born in Wilkes county, Geor- 
gia, about the year 1808. He was the son of Eev. William 
Davis, whose history is also found in these records, and who 
had two other sons who were Baptist ministers. Jonathan and 
James, who were older than Jesse M. His father was a most 
interesting character, as may be seen by reference to his biog- 
raphy, as were also his brothers. 

During his boyhood, Jesse M. Davis labored with his brothers 
on their father's farm, and the entire time he attended school 



404 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

could not have exceeded twelve months. Possessed of a supe- 
rior mind, arid-being of studious habits, in this brief period he 
acquired the rudiments of a good English education, which he 
continued to improve as long as he lived. He was endowed 
with a portly person, a commanding presence, a musical voice 
and ready delivery, and was altogether a most fascinating 
speaker. He had few equals as a conversationalist. 

At what age Mr. Davis made a public profession of religion, 
the writer is not informed, but it is believed to have been in his 
early manhood. Upon leaving the parental roof, he engaged 
in the practice of law at Elberton, Elbert county. But he 
seems to have pursued this calling with but little ardor, and in 
a few years to have entirely abandoned it. It is probable this 
step was taken that he might devote himself to the ministry, 
as we find him, at the age of twenty-four, (and soon after his 
marriage to Miss Burton,) fully engaged in the sacred calling. 
By whom he was ordained, we have not been able to learn, but 
soon after his ordination he removed to Lee county, where he 
resided the greater part of his life, and where he accumulated 
considerable property by farming. He was considered as be- 
longing to the class of " respectable planters." He was mar- 
ried three times. Of the fruit of his first marriage, Mrs. "Wes- 
ton, of Dawson, and Mrs. Swann, of Blakely, are yet living. 
By his second wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Gilbert, he had only one 
child, E. W. Davis, a highly respectable lawyer, of Blakely. 
By his last wife, Mrs, McG-ooldrick, he had no children. 

His home in Lee county was known as Pleasant Level, and is 
remembered by many as a most delightful retreat, not only on 
account of its ample appointments, but especially for the noble 
christian hospitality with which its visitors were ever enter- 
tained. Though often urged by his friends to allow his name 
to be used for worldly offices, he invariably declined, feeling 
that he already occupied the highest position to which a mor- 
tal can attain — that of an Ambassador for Christ. 

In 1858, he removed from Lee to Decatur county, where he 
resided during the war, and by the results of which he was 
rendered very poor, fle bore this reverse of fortune in such a 
spirit as might have been expected in a man so eminent for 
piety. 



Jesse M. Davis. 405 

Soon after the close of the war, under an invitation from the 
church at Blakely, Georgia, he become its pastor, where he 
died and is buried. Among other things that were true of him, 
the following are deemed worthy of special mention as being 
characteristic : That he never received remuneration for min- 
isterial services until his private means were swept away b}^ 
the war and he was left almost penniless; that he never had 
a personal falling out with any one, in the church or out of it ; 
that he never indulged in bitter sectarian controversy, and was 
beloved by christians of all denominations; that though he de- 
nounced sin, he never denounced sinners. He was ever persua- 
sive in manner, kind in spirit, and was eminently successful in 
winning souls to Christ. 

After a long and painful illness, borne with the greatest chris- 
tian fortitude, he died August 14th, 1868. Some hours before 
his departure he blessed and bade adieu to his family, and an- 
nounced his readiness for the summons to the other shore. 
The following brief extracts from a letter by his daughter, 
Mrs. Swann, to her sister, Mrs. Weston, will give a faint idea 
of the manner of his death : " For a month preceding his de- 
parture, he suffered more than tongue can tell or pen describe. 
His body was much swollen from dropsy, his breathing painful 
and difficult, and his back and hips terribly ulcerated. Thus 
he lay for many long and dreary weeks, suffering more, as it 
seemed to me, than it was possible for human nature to endure. 
Yet his hope of speedy deliverance never failed to give him 
comfort, and his faith in the Lord Jesus grew firmer and 
stronger to the end. Often, when his extreme sufferings would 
cause his face and body to be covered with great drops of cold, 
clammy sweat, he would call upon me to read the scriptures to 
him, which he would repeat after me, adding exclamations of 
praise and joy. He would frequently repeat stanzas of hymns, 
and only the day preceding his death he repeated over aad 
over several times, with apparent pleasure — 

'Farewell, vain world, I'm going home, 
My Saviour calls, and bids me come.' 

"One night he lay for hours in the most awful agony of pain. 
I sat by him, holding his clammy hands in mine, and watched 



406 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

his torture until I felt my heart would break. Yet there came 
from his pale, trembling lips these words, 'My Lord, and my 
God !' 'My Lord, and my God !' as if his poor soul was strug- 
gling through the billows to get nearer to his Saviour. When 
somewhat relieved, he said, ' Thus much, and ten-fold more, am 
I willing to suffer for His dear name's sake. I would not ex- 
change the peace of mind which I have, to be at ease and dwell 
in all the splendors of earth.' Though sometimes delirious, 
he never lost sight of the Saviour, whose name was almost 
constantly on his lips." He often prayed, and requested his 
friends to pray that he might pass away without pain or strug- 
gling. His desire in this respect was granted, for his death 
was instantaneous, and without the slightest spasm or contor- 
tion. 

Thus passed away a good man, who was greatly beloved by 
all who knew him, leaving behind a character, of which his 
posterity will never have cause to be ashamed, and an example 
worthy of being followed by all men. 

JOSEPH POLHILL. 

Eev. Thomas Polhill, the father of tlfe subject of this notice, 
was born in Chatham county, Georgia, January 12th, 1760, and 
died in Burke county, in 1814. His mother was a native of 
Savannah, whose maiden name was Mary Anderson, and who 
died in Effingham county, in 1804. Joseph Polhill was born at 
Newington, Effingham county, April 2d, 1798. Though some- 
what wild and dissipated in early life, he was a chosen vessel 
of the Lord, and, having obtained a good hope through grace, 
he was baptized into Hopeful church, Burke county, in Novem- 
ber, 1829, by Eev. Joseph Huff. Very soon after his baptism, 
he began to proclaim the glad tidings, to the astonishment of 
many who had known his previous manner of life, and even of 
some of his own kindred, who it seems could not have faith in 
the great change which had been so suddenly wrought in him. 
Yet so mightily did the Word prevail in his hands, that his ordi- 
nation was soon called for, and he was set apart to this work 
by a presbytery, consisting of Eevs. Joseph Key and Joseph 
Huff, at Friendship church, Eichmond county, in November, 



Joseph Polhill. 407 

1832. He was married to Miss Julia J. Guion, at New Eochelle, 
New York, in 1819. 

His labors were confined, in the main, to the bounds of the 
Hephzibah Association, of which body he was clerk for nine- 
teen years in succession, and was its moderator at the time of 
his death. From a book of memoranda, kept by himself, the 
following facts are gathered: That he performed nine hundred 
and twenty-seven baptisms, assisted in the constitution of five 
churches, and in the ordination of six ministers, and of nine- 
teen deacons; that he pronounced the marriage ceremony fifty- 
three times ; that the first person he baptized was his wife, and 
that he subsequently baptized four of his children, one brother, 
one sister, two sons-in-law, one daughter-in-law, and several 
nephews and nieces. He drove his favorite old horse, Buck, 
twelve years, and his estimate of the number of miles traveled 
was eighty thousand. 

He had two sons and four daughters, all of whom are living, 
and are consistent members of the Baptist church. Both his 
own sons are deacons. His wife, a most excellent and intelli- 
gent lady, died in Burke county, in 1803. The following letter 
from her to hei-son, D;\ John G. Polhil!,* will giv^ som) insight 
into her character, and is an affecting description of the man- 
ner of his death : 

" Burke County, December, 4th, 1858. 
11 My Dear Son : 

" What can I say to you? My heart is full almost to burst- 
ing. Your father — your precious father, is gone! and if I did 
not feel the ble?sed assurance that he is now reaping the re- 
ward of his labors, I should sink under the weight of this bitter 
stroke. Oh, how blind I was that I did not see that he had a 
premonition of this! He told me on Monday night that he 
felt as if he had preached his last sermon, and when I asked 
why, he said that when he was preaching on Sunday night he 
had such an overwhelming sense of the goodness of God, he 
was completely lost in the immensity of his fullness. ',Oh, 
mother, said he, it was all God, nothing but God ! ' On Tuesday 
morning about five o'clock, he asked me if I was awake, I told 

*Now a preacher. 



408 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

him that I had been for some time, but, supposing him asleep, 
I had kept quiet. He requested me to arise, and we kneeled on 
the bed, when he prayed for me that I might be sustained in 
every trial ; then for each of our children by name ; then 
prayed for his churches and friends, and offered a most fervent 
petition for sinners. He staid in the house most of the morn- 
ing, but, when he was out (about the premises,) the negroes 
say he was singing all the time, which was an unusual thing 
for him. At dinner I mentioned a sermon I had been reading, 
which, at his request, I handed to him. He read it, making com- 
ments on it as he proceeded. He had promised to preach for the 
Baptists in your brother's neighborhood on the 26th of Novem- 
ber, which made it necessary he should leave home on the day 
previous. I remarked I regreted his having to travel on thanks- 
giving day. He answered, 'never mind, mother, I can keep 
thanksgiving in my heart on the road.' Your brother told me 
the congregation was so large they had to repair to the camp- 
ground for accommodation. And they were so much pleased 
they made him promise to preach for them again on Christmas 
day. Saturday he preached twice in Louisville, and was again 
unanimously called to the care of the church for next year. 
Sunday forenoon a licentiate preached for him, and he followed 
in an exhortation which sister Batty (who came ' hoping to see 
his dear face once more/) told me was the best she ever heard. 
In the afternoon he lectured the colored congregation, and at 
night he preached to a crowded house, from II. Corinthians, 
v. 20: 'Now, then, we are ambassadors for Christ,' etc. 

" The foregoing circumstances cause me to think that he had 
a premonition that his course was about to end. When he had 
finished reading the sermon above alluded to, he took up a re- 
ligious paper, when I left the room. He soon went to the gin- 
house where the negroes were at work, and in fifteen minutes 
I heard them screaming, ' Master is killed ! ' (He had fallen 
from the scaffold, causing a laceration of the spinal marrow, 
which resulted in death.) When I reached him he said, 'I 
know you, my darling ; be composed, my back is broken, and 
my intestines are loose.' We placed him on a couch and brought 
him to the house. After he was laid on the bed, he said he did 
not suffer any pain except in his left arm. We rubbed it sev- 



Joseph PolhilL 409 

eral times with liniment, and he complained of it no more. 
His physicians (among whom was Dr. Miller, his son-in-law,) 
were convinced, from the first, that his injuries would prove 
fatal. When we were around his bed, he said to me, 'Mother, 
let us hold one another's hands to the last.' He looked at the 
children and said, 'All here except our first-born. Tell my dear 
John that I have fought the good fight.' He retained his rea- 
son and speech to the last, and said to a good brother that his 
hopes were so bright as almost to alarm him. When brother 
Tom Key took leave of him, he said, 'Farewell, brother Tom ; 
I hope to meet you on the banks of deliverance.' Old brother 
Key came to see him, and prayed with him. Your father asked 
him if he thought it possible he could be deceived, seeing he 
felt the presence of his Saviour so gloriously, and had such evi- 
dences of his acceptance. Brother Key assured him he had 
confidence that he was not deceived, which seemed to gratify 
him much. Frank Carswell staid with him the last night he 
lived. He knew him as soon as he spoke. Said to him, 'I am 
going home, Frank ; there is not a cloud between me and my 
Saviour.' He asked how late it was, and being informed it was 
past eight, he raised his clasped hands and exclaimed, ' Oh ! my 
gracious Master, when will the hour come ! ' Then closed his 
eyes and lay two or three minutes, opened them again, and 
looking at me, said, 'Be composed, they are making prepara- 
tions ;' closed them for the last time, and was gone, without a 
groan or a contortion. A most angelic smile rested on his dear 
face till it was hid from mortal gaze. His body lies in the fieM 
in front of the house. His old horse, Buck, and his gray drew 
him to his last resting place. His friends from far and near, 
old and young, came to his burial. Old brother Key performed 
appropriate services in the house, and brother Palmer prayed 
at the grave. 

"But, O, my son, when our married children and their fami- 
lies left me, then did I feel my loneliness. And when the hour 
came to surround the family altar, and he who had always of- 
fered the sacrifice was gone, it was almost more than I could 
do to read the scriptures and kneel in his accustomed place to 
implore God's blessing and protection." 

This excellent woman kept up family worship as long as she 



410 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

lived, unless confined to her bed by sickness, proving herself, as 
she had ever done, worthy to have been the wife of this most 
devoted and useful minister of Christ. With the influence of 
his example upon her, she could hardly have done otherwise. 

It had been his custom not only to attend family worship, 
morning and evening, but also whenever he was leaving his 
family for any length of time, they were assembled for special 
prayer, and were thus left under G-od's immediate protection. 

Mr. Polhill was a strong and consistent advocate of the tem- 
perance cause. From the hour of his conversion, he abstained 
altogether from intoxicating drinks. In his last illness, one of 
his physicians offered him brandy. He looked him steadily in the 
face and said, " Doctor, will you, as a physician, say this is nec- 
essary to save my life ? " The doctor replied that, as an honest 
man, he could not say so. " Then," said he, " doctor, take it 
back; I cannot violate the promise I made to my God many 
years ago, when he converted my soul." 

He was of a stout, heavy build, somewhat bordering on cor- 
pulence ; of a pleasant, open, honest countenance, and of a kind, 
fraternal, benevolent spirit. He loved his friends, and no man 
in turn was more beloved than he. They ever found a cordial 
welcome in his hospitable mansion, and with his intelligent 
family, and he knew how to make himself at home with them. 
His mind, though not of the first order, was of sufficient clear- 
ness, depth and power to render him a forcible and successful 
preacher of the Word. His education, though neither thorough 
nor extensive, was sufficient to qualify him for the business of 
life, and for great usefulness in the church. He belonged to 
the class of medium men — far the most useful class, whether in 
the church or in the world. 



THOMAS U. WILKES. 

During the author's pastorate in Macon, Georgia, in the 
spring of 1831, T. U. Wilkes, his mother and sister presented 
themselves before the Conference with letters of dismission 
from a church in South Carolina, of which State he was a native. 
He was then about twenty years of age. His father, en route 
from South Carolina to Alabama, finding the roads in an almost 



Thomas U. Wilkes. 411 

impassable condition, concluded to stop near Macon until such 
time as he could prosecute his journey to better advantage, 
which he did the ensuing winter. Being a mill-wright by trade, 
he and the subject of this sketch undertook the erection of a 
mill on Walnut creek, three miles above Macon, for the brothers 
Austin and Thomas Ellis. Those excellent men ever after held 
T. U. Wilkes in the highest esteem. Indeed, a cordial friend- 
ship then sprang up between them which lasted throughout 
their lives. 

He had been "licensed" by his mother church in South Caro- 
lina, and, though his education was quite limited, and his ap- 
pearance, on the whole, uogainly, yet such was his thirst for 
knowledge, his fervid zeal, and his unostentatious piety, as to 
give strong hope of future usefulness. With this hope, the 
writer encouraged him to attend school at least two years, and 
pledged his own lean purse for his support, should such a resort 
be necessary. The project for starting Mercer Institute was 
then on foot, but Wilkes had no time to lose. So, at the in- 
stance of the writer, Rev. A. Sherwood, then residing near Ea- 
tonton, Putnam county, agreed to receive him into his family 
and give him his board and tuition, on condition that he would 
work half his time. With this condition he faithfully complied, 
working at his trade, (that of a carpenter,) in the field, or 
wherever his services w T ere required. This arrangement lasted 
only one year, and the following winter, (the second Monday 
in January, 1833,) Wilkes was one of the " faithful few " who 
were at the opening of Mercer Institute. Here he continued 
two years or more, having acquired a very respectable knowl- 
edge of English and Latin ; and when he retired from the insti- 
tute, he carried with him the respect and confidence of Rev. B. 
M. Sanders, the principal, than whom there have been few bet- 
ter judges of human nature. This was also true of Rev. Dr. 
Sherwood, it being well known to the writer that Wilkes was 
ever afterwards held in high esteem by those great and good 
men. 

Upon leaving Penfield, he was invited by the executive com- 
mittee of the Central Association to become their missionary. 
Lot Hearn, of Putnam county, furnished him with a horse, and 
also a home at his house. Solomon Graves, of Newton county, 



412 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

also offered him a home, so the missionary neither lacked friends 
nor homes. In the course of that year he married a Miss Graves, 
of North Carolina, a relative of the Graves family, of Newton 
county, one of the most respectable and influential families in 
the State. With his wife, a most excellent woman, he received 
a handsome property, so that, in his circumstances, henceforth, 
though not affluent, he was quite independent. Yet this im- 
provement in his worldly condition did not divert his attention 
from the great work of the ministry. To this work he devoted 
his best energies, with unwavering fidelity, while he remained 
in this State, and, as far as is known, to the end of his earthly 
career. He resided in Eatonton, and preached there and to 
contiguous churches for several years. He was an earnest 
preacher, zealous and persevering, and was eminently success- 
ful in building up his churches. Indeed, he was considered by 
many worthy of being ranked in the first class of preachers in 
the regions where he labored. 

Having been invited by the First Baptist Church in Atlanta 
to become their pastor, he removed to that city about the year 
1852. Having lost his first wife while at Eatonton, he married 
an interesting lady of South Carolina. In Atlanta he was the 
same zealous and indefatigable minister that he had ever been, 
and many were "added unto the Lord." His case strikingly 
illustrates the fact, that want of early education, even though 
coupled with personal disadvantages, (for Wilkes had a harsh, 
grating voice, especially in its higher keys,) need be no obstacle 
to great usefulness in the ministry. About the period of the 
breaking out of the late war he removed with his family to the 
State of Arkansas, where he died at about the age of fifty-four. 
The writer calls to remembrance the last brief interview we 
ever had : It was so brief and so sad. After the storm of war 
had burst upon the country, he was passing down the Central 
Eailroad one night for the purpose of preaching to the soldiers 
around Savannah. In passing Gordon, he stepped out on the 
platform, when Wilkes, who was passing up from his old home 
in Putnam, hearing his voice in the dark, recognized it and 
came to him. A few hurried words — a cordial grasp of the 
hand — a mutual " God bless you i" and the friends of many 
years parted, to meet no more on earth. 



Adiel Sherwood, D. D. 413 

SiDce the foregoing was written, the following additional 
facts have been furnished by Eev. W. H. Eobert, of Arkansas, 
viz : That Wilkes moved from Georgia to Phillips county, 
Arkansas, in 1861, and settled on a farm near the town of 
Trenton. During the war, like most of his neighbors, he suf- 
fered the loss of all his earthly goods. He remained at home 
attending to his business, promoting the general good of the 
community, encouraging the hearts of the desponding, and 
preaching to his churches as usual. By much patience and 
perseverance he was enabled to keep up his appointments regu- 
larly, and some of his largest congregations were had during 
the war. For feeding his brother-in-law, a Confederate soldier, 
he was arrested and treated with great indignity, and his farm- 
ing implements, stock and household furniture either destroyed 
or taken away. He preached at Trenton, Blackfoot and Spring 
Creek churches in Phillips county, and occasionally to Concord 
and salem churches in Monroe. His last days were spent in 
preaching the gospel, the work he loved so well. In a meeting 
of several days at Salem church he became much exhausted, and 
having rested at home only one night, he began a similar meet- 
ing at Concord church. He had labored here about a week 
when he was stricken down by disease, which in two weeks 
terminated his earthly career. Brother Eobert says, " He was 
conscious to the last. Not two hours before his death, being- 
informed of his condition by his wife, he exclaimed, l I know it — 
Thy will, oh God, be done! 1 ' 1 This was his last utterance — ■ 
" Thy will, not mine, be done!" This event occurred in the neigh- 
borhood of Concord church, August 12th, 1865. He left a wife 
and five children, one of whom, Luther, is a theological student 
at William Jewell College, Missouri. He was a native of Marl- 
boro' District, South Carolina, was born in 1816, and died as 
above stated. 



ADIEL SHEEWOOD, D. D. 

Though this venerable brother is yet living, and remarkably 
active and energetic for one so advanced in years, (for he is 
now, 1874, in his eighty-third year,) yet the history of the Bap- 
tists of Georgia. would be very incomplete without a sketch of 



414 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

his useful life. When he returned to the State in 1857, it was 
with the intention of spending the remainder of his days among 
us. But his little farm in Butts county was in the track of 
Sherman's army, and he and his helpless family were stripped 
of all they had about them, which rendered his return to Mis- 
*souri, where he had some property remaining, necessary. 

He was born at Fort Edward, New York, on the east bank 
of the Hudson, forty-five miles north of Albany, October 3d, 
1791. [His father, Colonel Adiel Sherwood, was an officer du- 
ring the revolution, was twice in command of Fort Ann, and 
was with Washington that cold winter at Yalley Forge.] He 
was baptized by Ebenezer Harrington, and commenced the 
study of the classics at Granville, November, 1810, under Dr. 
Salem Town, who was in charge of Powelton Acadenry, in this 
State, in 1822 and 1823 ; entered Middlebury College at Town's 
suggestion in 1814, and in 1816 he went to Union College, Sche- 
nectady, near his home, where he was graduated in 1817. His 
graduating speech was a poem styled " The Battle of Niagara." 

He began to teach school in 1811, and taught, more or less, 
until 1858, when he had charge of Marshall College at Griffin. 
His knowledge of elementary books was so perfect that he 
could repeat (give him the first word or line,) most tables or 
chapters in those books, also most of Watts' psalms and hymns. 
He was at Andover Theological Seminary parts of 1817 and 
1818, and studied Hebrew under Professor Stuart. 

In October, 1818, he arrived in Savannah, where he preached 
his first sermon, a,nd taught the Academy at Waynesboro, 
Burke county, during the ensuing winter. He was ordained at 
Bethesda church, Greene county, in March, 1820, by a presby- 
tery consisting of Mercer, Beeves, Roberts and Mathews, and 
was pastor of Bethlehem church, near Lexington, in 1820 and 
1821. In May, 1821, he was married to Mrs. Early, relict of 
Governor Peter Early. He and Jesse Mercer aided in organ- 
izing the Baptist church at Greensboro, in June, 1821, of which 
he was pastor eleven years in succession. In April, 1823, he 
attended the General Baptist Convention of the United States, 
and in the summer of the same year he and Mr. Mercer visited 
the Mission Station at Yalley Town, North Carolina. In 1820 
and 1821 he was missionary of the Savannah Missionary So- 



Adiel Sherwood, D. D. 415 

ciety, in Pulaski, Laurens and other counties in that region. 
In October, 1820, he prepared the resolution which was offered 
in the Sarepta Association, at Euckersville, by Charles J. Jen- 
kins, father of ex-Governor Jenkins, which resulted in the for- 
mation of the Georgia Baptist Convention, (or General Associa- 
tion, as it was first called,) at Powelton, in June, 1822. Having 
lost his first wife, he was married to Miss Heriot, of Charleston, 
South Carolina, in May, 1824. 

In 1827 he took charge of Eatonton Academy, Putnam 
county, and at the same time preached to the churches at Ea- 
tonton, Milledgeville, and Greensboro. Was pastor at the for- 
mer place ten years, and, during a portion of that time, rode 
forty miles and back monthly to preach to the newly consti- 
tuted church at Macon. He also had under his instruction a 
few theological students. In the Georgia Baptist Convention 
at Big Buckhead church, Burke county, in 1831, he made the 
motion for a theological institution, which finally culminated 
in the establishment of Mercer University. As the project 
was not pushed forward with such energy as met his views, he 
started a small manual labor school on his farm, two miles 
north of Eatonton, early in the year 1832; which, however, 
he discontinued so soon as Mercer Institute got into opera- 
tion. 

He was several times a delegate from Georgia, in the Baptist 
Triennial Convention of the United States, in 1829, in company 
with Dr. Manly of Charleston ; in 1832, with Hon. Thomas 
Stocks; and. in 1835, with Jesse Mercer. He also aided in the 
formation of the American and Foreign Bible Society, in Phil- 
adelphia. He was elected to a professorship in Columbian 
College, District of Columbia, in which position he labored two 
years; and in 1838, returned to Georgia, and entered upon the 
duties of professor of sacred literature in Mercer University. 
He remained here only some three years, when he was called 
to the presidency of Shurtleff College, Illinois. While -in 
Georgia, he was several times appointed by the Governor one 
of the board of visitors to the State University. 

His connection with Shurtleff College was continued several 
years, during which time the degree of Doctor of Divinity 
was conferred upon him by Dennison University at Granville, 



416 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

Ohio. While in the West, he served, for a time as President 
of the Masonic College at Lexington, Missouri. He also suc- 
ceeded the lamented and indefatigable Isaac McCoy, as secre- 
tary of the American Indian Missionary Association, in which 
capacity he visited the Mission Stations West of Fort Towson, 
and also in Kansas Territory. In 1822, he removed to Cape 
Girardeau, Missouri; but rheumatism compelled him to return 
once more to Georgia, which he did in 1857. He took charge 
of Marshall College, with which he was connected until called 
to the pastorship of Griffin church. He resided in that city 
several years, which he at length left for his farm in Butts 
county, where, as already stated, he was broken up by the 
Yankee army in its victorious (?) march through the State in 
the fall of 1864. He and his family struggled against want 
until the following September, when they returned to Missouri 
and settled in St. Louis, where they now reside. 

Dr. Sherwood has ever manifested a fondness for literary 
pursuits and employments. He has written and published 
much. His " Gazetteer of Georgia," which has passed through 
several editions, with improvements, first appeared in 1827. 
It is an excellent work of the kind, and contains much valuable 
information no where else to be found. His " Jewish and Chris- 
tian Churches " is concise and comprehensive, and is conclusive 
upon the subject of which it treats. Hi3 " Notes on the New 
Testament," an invaluable contribution to our religious litera- 
ture, was first issued in 1856, and has passed through four edi- 
tions of five hundred each. He was engaged on this work 
many years, and it is, perhaps, the most important he has ever 
' published. Quite a number of his sermons have been published 
by request of those bodies before whom they were delivered. 
And then he has contributed hundreds, if not thousands, of ar- 
ticles for magazines, reviews and other papers in all parts of 
the land, and on all sorts of subjects affecting the welfare of 
mankind, and especially the interests of the cause of Christ. 
It would not comport with the design of this work to go into 
a detailed account of these productions of this laborious servant 
of Christ. 

As a preacher, Dr. Sherwood is ever systematic, concise and 
pointed. To those accustomed to hear him, it would seem that 



Henry Collins. 417 

he could not be otherwise. In early life he was somewhat 
given to controversial preaching, in which he sometimes indulged 
in a degree of asperity of language towards his opponents. 
Later in life he has pursued a different course, and the writer 
has heard him express regret for what he considered un- 
wise and unprofitable in this particular. His long life has been 
eminently a laborious one. He has not eaten the bread of the 
idler. Whatever his hand has found to do, he has done with 
his might — not for worldly gain, for, be it recorded to the re- 
proach of those who have enjoyed the benefits of his preaching, 
he has been paid, on an average, only about one hundred dollars 
per annum during forty years of his ministerial career. Of 
course he has had to support his family by teaching, farming 
and other means, in all of which he had been successful. He 
now resides in St. Louis, Missouri. 

He has been eminently successful in winning souls to Christ, 
and few men are more efficient in seasons of revival than he. 
The great revival of 1827 and 1828 commenced under his minis- 
try at Eatonton. Thence it extended to the session of the Oc- 
mulgee Association at Antioch church, Morgan county, where 
hundreds were converted, (among whom was the celebrated 
John E. Dawson,) and thence the blessed influence was carried 
by the delegates, ministers and visitors throughout all the in- 
terior counties, whence it spread to the remotest parts of the 
State, resulting, in two years, in the hopeful conversion of up- 
wards of fifteen thousand souls. 

HENRY COLLINS 

Was a native of Jackson county, Georgia, where he was born 
February 20th, 1798. The poverty of his father prevented him 
from affording his son a liberal education, so that he attended 
school only long enough to acquire a knowledge of the rudi- 
ments of the English language. At the age of about twenty- 
seven, he obtained hope in Christ and was baptized into the 
fellowship of Sharon church, Llenry county, Georgia. He was 
licensed to preach in February, 1835, and was ordained in Janu- 
ary, 1836, by a presbytery consisting of A. Sherwood, W. A. 
Callaway and J. H. Campbell. Soon after his ordination he 
27 



418 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

removed with his famity to Cobb county, which was then a 
frontier country, inhabited by Indians and hunters. In his 
neighborhood there were only two professors of religion, a 
Methodist exhorter and a Hard-shell Baptist. But the zeal of 
this humble yet faithful man of God soon found places for 
preaching and people to preach to. As the country was to- 
tally destitute of meeting houses, he called the settlers together 
in private houses, under bush arbors, and frequently under the 
shades of the primeval forest trees; and with such heavenly 
unction did he deliver the gospel message, that hundreds were 
soon brought to a saving knowledge of Christ, who were bap- 
tized and constituted into churches. Meeting houses soon 
sprang up as if by magic, and "the wilderness and the solitary 
place" was literally " made glad." He labored in that field 
about twenty-five years, and was instrumental in accomplishing 
incalculable good. Frequently, during the summer and fall 
months, he would be engaged in revival meetings almost inces- 
santly, preaching day and night, and baptizing hundreds. On 
one occasion, during a period of three months, he attended 
meetings regularly, with an intermission of only one day and 
two nights, during which time he baptized seventy-five souls. 

Sunday-schools and the temperance cause found in him a con- 
sistent and ardent supporter and advocate. Indeed, there was 
nothing calculated to promote the best interests of his fellow- 
citizens that did not receive the whole weight of his influence, 
which, though an extremely modest and unpretending man, was 
generally controlling in his field of operations. Of course, such 
a man could not do otherwise than command the respect and 
confidence of all who knew him. 

In September, 1859, he contracted a violent cold while labor- 
ing in a meeting at Holly Spring church, Cherokee county, 
which resulted in chronic pneumonia, and which finally termi- 
nated his useful life. The following winter he withdrew from 
the field of labor which he had cultivated so long and so suc- 
cessfully, and located in Dooly county, in the hope, perhaps, 
that a warm climate might improve his health. But he was 
able to preach but few times in his new field of labor, on ac- 
count of the diseased condition of his lungs. It would seem 
that the Lord had given him warning of his approaching end, 



Henry Collins. 419 

as several months before his death, while yet able to ride about 
the neighborhood, he was often heard to say that his work was 
done. Several times he said to his family that Paul's declara- 
tion (Timothy, iv. chapter, 6, 7, 8 verses,) rested with great 
weight on his mind : " For I am ready to be offered, and the 
time of my departure is at hand," etc. He lingered for months, 
enjoying the brightest evidences of his acceptance with God, 
and finally fell asleep in Jesus on the 5th day of June, 1860, in 
the sixty-third year of his age. 

The Noonday Association, at its session in 1861, thus notices 
his demise: "We also notice the death of one other minister, 
who, though not a member of our body at the time of his death, 
yet his name and labors are so intimately connected with the 
Baptist cause in this section of country, that we cannot refrain 
from mentioning him : We refer to your former moderator, Rev. 
Henry Collins, a man who lived in your midst for many years ; 
whose voice has been heard in nearly every Baptist church, and 
in almost every nook and corner of this part of Cherokee Geor- 
gia. He 'bore the heat and burden of the day.' ''He went 
forth weeping, bearing precious seed.' God abundantly blessed 
his labors, and hundreds still live to testify that he was the fa- 
vored instrument in the hands of God in bringing them to 
Christ. He was eminently a man of prayer; and, not only in 
his waking moments, but sometimes in the stillness of the night, 
have the families with whom he tarried been awakened from 
their slumbers by his unconscious, though fervent aj:>peals to a 
throne of grace for some poor lost sinner. He was a good min- 
ister of Christ, and, though not great in the estimation of the 
world, yet was he blessed of God, and loved and honored by his 
brethren. Like a shock of corn, fully ripe, has he been gath- 
ered into the garner of the Lord, that he may rest from his 
labors, and so that his works may follow him." A noble testi- 
monial to a worthy man ! 

His doctrinal views were moderately Calvinistic. As a Bap- 
tist, he was liberal, but decided. In person, he was above the 
ordinary height and weight, of a benign countenance, musical 
voice, persuasive manner and grave deportment. His influence 
for good, in Cherokee Georgia, will not soon be lost. 



420 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

JAMES WHITTEN. 

This worthy and useful minister of the gospel was born in 
Spartanburg District, South Carolina, January 26th, 1785, and 
died in Columbus, Georgia, the 17th of November, 1859, in the 
seventy-fifth year of his age. He was married in 1809, to Miss 
A. E. Thompson, a devotedly pious lady, whose influence tend- 
ed to strengthen religious impressions of which he was already 
the subject. Eut the cares of his family and other worldly in- 
terests predominated for a time. Before he had attained his 
thirtieth year, he was elected to a seat in the Legislature of 
his native State, and at other times he held other important 
offices oi honor and trust, conferred upon him by his fellow- 
citizens. 

About this period of life he had severe struggles of soul. 
Worldly honors and successes failed to satisfy the longings of 
his immortal nature, though attained by honorable means, and 
in part to gratify the wishes of his friends. In the thirty-sec- 
ond year of his age, he obtained pardon and peace through 
faith in Christ. 

After having experienced much distress and perplexity on 
the subject of a public profession of religion for six months, he 
finally united with the Baptist church at the Cross-roads, in 
Greenville District, South Carolina, and was baptized by Eev. 
N. Jackson. 

He henceforth relinquished the world, and devoted his life 
to the work of doing good. To honor God and relieve the 
wretchedness of suffering humanity, engaged all the energies 
of his being. Every good and benevolent enterprise received 
his hearty support. He was licensed to preach in March, 1823, 
and after laboring with much acceptance for nearly two years, 
in December, 1825, he was ordained at the request of the 
church with which he first united. That winter he removed 
to Hall county, Georgia, and soon thereafter became the pastor 
of Yellow creek church; and giving himself almost entirely to 
the ministry during the ten years of his residence in that neigh- 
borhood, he was greatly blessed in his labors of love. His 
name is, even to this day, like a household word in the circles 
in which he moved in those days. 



Marlin Ansley. 421 

The loss of his first wife about this time, the mother of ten 
children, was an irreparable loss. Soon after this sad event, he 
removed to the neighborhood of Whitesville, Harris county, 
where his ministry was also highly appreciated, and where 
many recognized him as the instrument of their conversion. 
Here he married a second time, and here, also, his second wife 
soon died. After her decease, he removed to Columbus, and 
spent his remaining days in the family of one of his daughters 

In this field of labor, by his unostentatious piety and untir- 
ing devotion to the work of his divine Master, he secured the 
warmest christian affection of all his associates, and the respect 
of the entire community. As a missionary among the factory 
population, and the pastor of the African Baptist church, he 
was eminently useful. 

During the thirty-eight years of his ministry, he baptized 
upwards of one thousand professed believers. 

Having accomplished his work, in accordance with a prayer 
which he 'frequently uttered, he was "gathered as a shock of 
corn fully ripe," and "died in sight of heaven," at peace with 
God and all mankind. 

He was " a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith." 
By no act of his life did he ever bring reproach on the cause 
of Christ. On the contrary, he glorified Him in all things. 
Few men were more familiar with the sacred volume, or could 
wield the weapons of warfare which it furnishes, more effec- 
tively. Verily was he " a good minister of Jesus Christ." 



MAELIK ANSLEY 

Was born in Warren county, in this State, in 1802, where he 
grew up to manhood. In his twentieth year he was baptized 
into the church at Union, by Rev. Winder Hillsman. Though 
impressed with the duty of preaching from the dawn of his 
-religious life, owing to excessive timidity and a deep sense of 
his unfitness for the sacred calling, he was restrained froni par- 
ticipating in the work for several years. In the meantime, he 
had married a Miss Johnson, and had removed to Crawfcml 
county. Here he was soon licensed to preach, and continued 
to labor as a licentiate for ten years. In 1835 he was called to 



422 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

ordination by Salem church, of which he was a member, and 
was set apart by a presbytery consisting of Jonathan Neal and 
Joshua Eowe. 

The mission question, or, rather, opposition to the cause of 
missions, produced much dissension and division among the 
churches in those days. The Salem church, of which Mr. Ans- 
ley was a member, separated into two parties, the anti-mis- 
sionaries being in the majority. He took sides with the mi- 
nority, and, though the meeting-house was on his own land, to 
which he held a legal title, he peaceably withdrew with the 
minority and joined with others in constituting a new church 
known as Liberty Grove, which was subsequently removed to 
Knoxville, the county site. Of this church he continued a 
member until his death, which occurred in August, 1850. 

Mr. Ansley took an active and prominent part in the forma- 
tion of the Eehoboth Association, one of the most liberal and 
efficient bodies in the State. In this connection he co-operated 
heartily with Jacob King, John H. Clark and Hiram Powell, 
now deceased, and with Tharp, Wilkes and others still living, 
in prosecuting missions both at home and abroad. His talents 
were not above mediocrity, and he was but little known be- 
yond the bounds of his own Association ; yet it is confidently 
believed he was " a chosen vessel " for bearing richer supplies 
of grace than many whose fame has spread throughout the 
land. No man ever maintained a reputation freer from re- 
proach, and none, perhaps, ever adorned their profession by a 
more godly and pious life. 

His death was, of course, peaceful. He sunk into the grave 
like " a shock of corn fully ripe," leaving all who were permit- 
ted to witness his departure exclaiming, "Let me die the death 
of the righteous, and let my last end be like his !" 

ROBERT FLEMING. 

The subject of this brief sketch was born in Warren county, 
Georgia, August 3d, 1797. His father, Samuel Fleming, was a 
native of Ireland. His mother was a Grier, and was a near 
relative of Robert Grier, the author of " Grier's Almanac," so 
wellknow^n to the people of Georgia. 



Robert Fleming. 423 

From early childhood Mr. Fleming exhibited much fondness 
for books, and the first quarter of a dollar he ever earned was 
used in purchasing " Webster's American Spelling Book," which 
was preserved with great care, and was finally given to a fe- 
male relative and was used by her as her first school-book. 
During the war of 1815, he commenced teaching school at the 
early age of seventeen, which business he pursued most of his 
life. He was considered an excellent Eoglish scholar and a 
good teacher. 

It was in 1820, under the preaching of Eev. James O. An- 
drew, (afterwards Bishop Andrew, of the Methodist church,) 
that Mr. Fleming became fully awakened to a sense of his lost 
condition as a sinner. It was at a camp-meeting in Columbia 
county. The text was, "And I saw the dead, small and great, 
stand before God." etc., Revelations xx. 12. We give his chris- 
tian experience in nearly his own words : " He was sublimely 
eloquent, and it was this which first engaged my attention. 
But his reasoning seemed to me irresistible. I had often heard, 
and verily thought, that infants came into the world holy. 
Wh} 7 , therefore, thought I, should they be judged ? But he 
made it appear conclusively that they were c born in sin,' 'born 
under the law,' and that none but Jesus Christ, who was ' made 
of a woman,' 'made under the law,' could redeem them that 
are under the law. The necessitj^ of a divine mediator, of a 
divine atonement, of a divine righteousness — the righteousness 
of God in Jesus Christ — was most powerfully presented. I felt 
that I was entirely unfit to appear before God in the judgment. 
I was without God and without hope. The discourse was so 
deeply impressed on my mind, and my feelings were so much 
agitated, that during the afternoon it seemed as if some one 
was following me, wherever I went, with the words, 'Hear 
him! hear him!' It seems to me strange to this day, yet it is 
true, that I did believe Andrew could explain the way of sal- 
vation, and that I could learn it from him, as if it were a mathe- 
matical problem. The putting forth of mental effort, I thought, is 
all that is necessary in order to become a christian. Oh, how 
completely has sin put out the knowledge of divine things in 
the soul ! How lost, how ruined by the fall! 

"Eev. William Capers (afterwards Bishop Capers,) was ap- 



424 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

pointed to preach on Monda}^, to be followed by Andrew, in 
exhortation. And I waited with great anxiety for Capers to 
close, that I might hear Andrew again, as the words ' hear him ! 
hear him ! ' still seemed to sound in my ears. I had seated my- 
self conveniently for hearing to advantage, and when Andrew 
rose to speak, I rose, also, that I might have a good view of 
him. In the act of rising, I thought I was on the very threshold 
of salvation ; that Andrew would make all plain, and that I 
should be a christian. But I had scarcely risen to my feet when 
this impression swept away all hopes of the kind, 'You are a 
lost sinner ; none but God, who made you, can save you ! ' At that 
moment I turned from Andrew, and all created help, to God for 
salvation. The voice, 'hear him! ' was now hushed, and 'God 
be merciful to me a lost sinner! ' came in its stead. In an asr- 
ony bordering on despair, I sat down, and, bowing my head, I 
wept bitterly. Language is inadequate to describe my feelings. 
A pious friend, sitting by my side, inquired, 'Do you feel that 
you want to be a christian?' I could not reply, but throwing 
myself on his lap, I was overwhelmed with the deepest emo- 
tion. Mr. Andrew, and other Methodist and Baptist friends, 
Mr. Sanders (afterwards Eev. B. M. Sanders,) among them, 
gathered around, manifesting the kindest sympathy for me. 
Mr. Andrew made special prayer in my behalf; yet it was not 
until some months later that I fully embraced Christ Jesus as 
my Saviour, and was enabled to leave all my interests for time 
and eternity in his hands." 

It was by searching the scriptures, especially by reading 
prayerfully the 6th chapter of Romans, that he, though brought 
up a Presbyterian, became convinced of the truth of Baptist 
sentiments. In June, 1821, he was baptized into the Union 
church, Warren county, by Eev. Winder Hillman ; in Novem- 
ber, 1827, was licensed to preach the gospel, and in 1830, was 
ordained at Warrenton by B. M. Sanders, J. P. Marshall, E. 
Perry man, J. H. Walker and Jonathan Davis. 

His limited circumstances and the wants of a growing family 
rendered it necessary that he should devote his attention dur- 
ing the week, throughout nearly the whole of his active life, to 
the business of teaching. His labors in this respect were dis- 
pensed mostly in Warren, Meriwether and Talbot counties. 



William Neivton. 425 

Yet, as he had opportunity, he preached laboriously and suc- 
cessfully. Few men of his day were so particular in the prep- 
aration of their sermons. He frequently wrote them out in full, 
which not many ministers of that day had either time or incli- 
nation to do. Several were published, which were very credit- 
able productions. 

Mr. Fleming was the author of several small works, among 
which may be mentioned " John's Baptism," and the "Life of 
Bev. Humphrey Posey." He also published the "Georgia Pul- 
pit," a collection of sermons — a valuable work. His "Elemen- 
tary Spelling Book," published during the war, had a fine sale, 
and was very popular. 

He was married three times. His first wife was Elizabeth 
Gun by, his second was Charlotte D. Sherwood, (a sister of Kev. 
Adiel Sherwood,) and his third Mrs. R. A. Harris, widow of Di\ 
Bennet Harris, of Jefferson county. They were all excellent 
persons. 

Mr. Fleming is still living, (in Thomas county, Georgia,) is in 
good health, and is in his seventy-seventh year. No man is 
more deserving of public respect and confidence than he. It is 
not very creditable to the denomination that men of his years 
and in his depressed circumstances, are not better sustained. 

WILLIAM NEWTON. 

This highly gifted man was born in Warren county, Tennes- 
see, February 28th, 1818. His parents were poor, and thinking 
they might improve their worldly condition, they removed to 
McMinn county, while William was yet an infant. His father, 
Edward Newton, was a Baptist minister. The subject of this 
sketch gave evidence of a change of heart, and was baptized 
before he attained to manhood. But little is known of his early 
years, except that his education was quite limited, and that he 
grew up in the midst of extremely rude society. 

When only in his eighteenth year, he married his first wife, 
Miss Temperance Smith, January, 1835. Soon thereafter he 
was licensed to preach the gospel, but he seems to have entered 
upon the work with many misgivings. In the fall Of 1839, he 
set out with his little family to Missouri. But, for some cause, 



426 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

he was permitted to proceed no further than Southeastern Illi- 
nois, where bis wife died, October 1st, 1840, leaving three small 
children. With these helpless ones, (the infant being only three 
months old,) he undertook to return to his friends in Tennessee, 
and was actually successful in his undertaking, making the 
whole distance in a one-horse carriage, and alone, except his 
dependent charge. 

The following year, 1841, he married his second wife, who 
proved to be an help-meet indeed. While in Illinois, Jonah 
like, he did not make himself known as a preacher of the gos- 
pel, and it would seem that, like Jonah, he was fleeing from 
his duty. But upon his return to his native State, he threw 
himself fully into the work, and was soon ordained, at the re- 
quest of the Oostanaula church, by Revs. Edward Newton and 
William Forrest. In this region he preached acceptably for 
several years ; yet his usefulness, as well as his improvement, 
was much hindered by the policy of the churches, which was 
to require their ministers to preach while they withheld from 
them all pecuniary assistance. It was in this state of things 
that Mr. Newton fell in with an eminent minister of upper 
Georgia, Eev. Edwin Dyer, through whose influence a new 
field of labor was opened up to him in Walker county, which he 
entered in 1847. Here he was soon employed by the Coosa 
Association as a domestic missionary, was well sustained, and 
was enabled to increase his library and to devote a portion of 
his time to study. 

Eight years of the prime of his life were spent in Chattooga 
county, serving the village churches of Lafayette and Summer- 
ville, and several country churches, all of which prospered un- 
der his ministry. His growing popularity, however, proved a 
snare to him, for in 1850 he must needs study law. He was ad- 
mitted to the bar and entered upon the practice with encour- 
aging prospects ; yet his prosperity in this respect was destined 
to be short-lived, for the Lord began to deal with him so as to 
bring him back to his duty. Severe affliction was visited upon 
his family, his wife having been confined to her bed for six 
months, and a favorite child being removed by death. The 
courts had no jurisdiction in such cases. On his way to one of 
his courts, he lost his way in the mountains and spent the night 



George Granberry. 427 

in much peril and anxiety. During those hours of darkness 
and suffering, he was constrained to renew his resolution to de- 
vote his life to the ministry of the Word. Thenceforth his 
whole time was demanded by the churches, and he was better 
sustained than formerly. He gave up the practice of law and 
resumed his legitimate work with redoubled energy and zeal. 

In the fall of 1857 he removed to Cave Spring, Floyd county, 
devoting half his time to the church there and the balance to 
neighboring churches. Here, also, his ministry was much 
blessed. His churches had peace and prosperity, and their 
numbers were increased by the addition of new converts. He 
continued in this field until death terminated his career, which 
event occurred August 4th, 1861, in the forty -fourth year of his 
age. He had raised a company for the service of the Confed- 
erate Government in the late war, but was prevented from 
leading it into active service by an attack of typhoid dysentery, 
of which he died in ten days. He spoke freely of his approach- 
ing end, expressing the most unwavering faith in Christ. 
Among his last words were, " I shall soon be at rest with 
Jesus/' repeating with holy ecstacy the word "rest, rest!''' 

His doctrinal views were decidedly Calvinistic, and, while he 
had christian fellowship for all good men, he was a most deci- 
ded Baptist in sentiment, and on all suitable occasions was 
ready to maintain his views as such. In fact, he had several 
public disputations with pcedo-Baptists, in which he displayed 
great tact and ability, considering his deficiency in education. 

Mr. Newton was fully six feet in height, of a robust constitu- 
tion, fine personal appearance, had a rich, sonorous voice, which 
he never strained in speaking, and was naturally a most capti- 
vating and powerful preacher. 

GEOKGE GEANBEKKY. 

The subject of this brief sketch was born in Jefferson county, 
in this State, February 5th, 1797, where he was brought up in 
the family of his brother, his parents having died while he was 
yet a child. In his early manhood he married a Miss Jane Ann 
Whitley, in Louisville, in December, 1822, who survived her 
marriage only about six months. In November, 1824, he mar- 



428 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

ried Miss Sarah S. Hill, in Twiggs county, and removed to 
Harris county in about 1830, where he was again soon left a 
widower. His third wife was a Miss Mary B. Folsom, whom 
he married in Laurens county, in July, 1832, and who still sur- 
vives him. In early life, he was engaged in merchandising. 
After his removal to Harris county, his business was that of a 
farmer. He was a member of the Legislature several years. 

He was baptized by Eev. John M. Gray into Mount Zion 
church, Muscogee county, in 1831, and commenced preaching 
in 1835. Was ordained at Eehoboth church, Harris county, by 
Eiders B. B. Buchanan and John M. Gray. He served as pastor 
the village churches of LaGrange and Hamilton, and in the 
course of years gave his attention to several country churches, 
all of which enjoyed much prosperity under his ministrations. 
Though a man of limited education, and of quite ordinary gifts 
as a public speaker, yet he possessed a sound mind, excellent 
judgment, ardent zeal in the Master's cause, and enjoyed, in an 
unusual degree, the confidence of the public. He studied the 
Bible perseveringly and prayerfully; took great pains in the 
preparation of his sermons, and delivered them as one who felt 
that he " must give account." It is believed that few men have 
been more eminently useful, within a given period, than he. 

And while he enjoyed the love of his brethren and the con- 
fidence and respect of the world, it was in the family circle 
especially that his excellency of character shone forth. He 
was a model husband and father, indeed, and here his memory 
will be fragrant while any of his family survive. 

His death, which occurred January the 14th, 1856, was the 
result of a chronic disease of the heart, under which he had 
suffered for years, and by which he had been for a long time 
disqualified for preaching. When the summons came, however, 
it found him ready, and he passed away in the full assurance of 
future bliss. The death of such a man is a public calamity. 

DEACOX JOSIAH PENFIELD. 

Beacon Penfield is a striking illustration of the importance 
of writing the biographies of useful men before the facts so es- 
sential to such an undertaking fade from the memories of the 



Deacon Josiah Penfield. 429 

living. He is well remembered in Savannah, but none can give 
facts in reference to his useful life with sufficient accuracy for 
history, although it has been^but little over a quarter of a cen- 
tury since his death. 

He came originally from some one of the Eastern States, but 
passed most of his life in Savannah. His business was that of 
a jeweler, and he was a very accurate and successful business 
man. The handsome fortune he accumulated was devoted with 
a noble generosity to benevolent objects. He bequeathed to the 
Georgia Baptist Convention 82,500 00, for the purposes of theo- 
logical education, on condition that that body and its friends 
should raise an equal amount. This was promptly done at the 
session of that body in Milledgeville, in 1829, his bequest was 
paid, and the village in which Mercer University is located was 
named for him. 

He was a remarkably useful member and officer of- the Sav- 
annah Baptist church. It is said of him that he never allowed 
his secular business to prevent his attendance upon the meet- 
ings of the church. He was one of the earliest movers of Sun- 
day-schools in the city, and a most efficient laborer in them. 
His name appears among the prominent members of the Sun- 
bury Association, and in 1822 he was its clerk. He was re- 
garded as one of the best men in the city, and had a large 
influence among other denominations, while he was a burning 
and shining light in his own church. 

He became much interested in the spiritual welfare of that 
much neglected class of men, the sailors, who visited the port 
in large numbers from all parts of the world. As a general 
thing, they cannot be induced to attend the usual places of 
worship. Hence, Mr. Pendfield did all he could to have reli- 
gious services for them on shipboard, and made every exertion 
to secure their attendance ; and at his death, he bequeathed a 
sufficient sum for the erection a "Mariner's chapel," which now 
occupies a convenient and eligible site on Bay street. The 
building bears his name — " The Penfield Mariner's Church" and 
is held in trust by the " Savannah Port Society." This society 
aims to keep it regularly supplied with preaching, and other 
religious exercises. 

The author has a vivid and pleasing recollection of the last 



430 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

time he ever saw Mr. Penfield. It was at a young men's 
prayer meeting in Sunbury, in the spring of 1823. He was on 
the verge of the grave from consumption, that fell disease, 
which soon bore him to his long home. With a hollow and 
sepulchral voice, he gave out the hymn, "There is a land of 
pure delight," and then made such a prayer as would scarce 
ever be forgotten. He died soon thereafter in Savannah, and 
his funeral discourse was delivered by his friend and pastor, 
Eev. H. O. Wyer. 



HOEATIO J. GOSS. 

It is matter of deep regret that so little can be gathered of 
the life and labors of the excellent man, whose name stands at 
the head of this brief notice. " What is our life ? It is even 
as a shadow that appeareth for a little while and then vanisheth 
away." But his name ought to be preserved, if for no other 
reason, because he was the father of four excellent and useful 
ministers of the gospel, viz: Benjamin, Isham H., William E., 
and Horatio J., Jr. 

The subject of this sketch was for many years one of the 
most prominent citizens of Elbert county, Georgia, and for 
twenty years was deacon and clerk of Sardis church. Late 
in life he was licensed to preach the gospel, and though not 
fluent in speech, his great weight of character rendered im- 
pressive and profitable whatever he said, for he always spoke 
according to the divine oracles. He was remarkable for punc- 
tuality in all his religious and secular engagements. He used 
the office of deacon well, and was thoroughly grounded and set- 
tled in the faith and practice inculcated in the iSTew Testament. 
He believed in ministerial support, not as a charity, but as a 
duty, and ever proved his faith by his works, in that he invari- 
ably paid his pastor liberally and punctually, and prompted all 
around him to do the same. He departed in peace in 1851, 
and was supposed to be about sixty-five years of age. How 
greatly hath God honored him, in having called four of his sons 
to the highest sphere of usefulness assigned to mortals! 



Benjamin Goss. 431 

BENJAMIN GOSS 

"Was the eldest son of H. J. Gross, Sr., and was born in Elbert 
county, Georgia, in 1810.. He was reared to industrious habits, 
working on the farm from his early boyhood ; had scarce^ any 
advantages of education, was quite moral, frugal and industri- 
ous. While quite young he was awakened to the importance 
of religion, and in a still and quiet manner sought the Lord, 
and found him, as he thought, a precious Saviour, and enjoyed 
himself much in his private meditations upon God's goodness. 
He delighted in visiting the house of God and in hearing the 
gospel preached, but his timidity and backwardness prevented 
him from opening his mind to any one. At length, after a 
lapse of several years, he was, conversed with on the subject of 
his christian experience and was induced to relate it fully. 
This inspired him with a little more confidence, and he ven- 
tured tremblingly to apply to the church for baptism. About 
1838 he was received into the fellowship of the Van's Creek 
church, Euckersville, and was baptized by Rev. Asa Chandler. 
Mr. Goss soon became a zealous and active member of the 
church, would pray in public when called on, and in a few 
years was chosen and ordained a deacon. He was ever active 
and zealous in his religious duties, became a leader in prayer 
meetings, in which he would sometimes lecture or exhort with 
great fervor. The conviction was soon forced on the minds of 
his brethren that he was designed of God to labor in a higher 
sphere, which, corresponding with his own impressions, he was 
called to the work of the ministry. He would become so ex- 
cited and animated when speaking of God's goodness and love, 
that he seldom failed to impress those who heard him. 

He was ordained about the year 1854, and for ten successive 
years he labored in preaching Christ to the people with great 
earnestness, zeal and simplicity. His discourses were uniformly 
short and well-timed as to the surroundings, and were never 
known to weary his audience, but generally left the impression 
with the most fastidious that, though the speaker was not a 
great preacher nor a learned man, yet he was a good man, and 
was doubtless deeply in earnest in all his unaffected and simple 
appeals to the hearts and consciences of his hearers. He was 



432 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

pastor of Rock Branch church several years, and was greatly 
respected and beloved by his flock and congregation. - At the 
time of his death ho was also pastor of Bethel church. He 
preached his last sermon on Sunday, (preceding his death on 
the following Friday,) at a school-house a few miles from his 
residence, during the delivery of which he was observed to be 
unusually solemn. His disease was brain fever, which produced 
delirium, so that he was deprived of the privilege of bearing- 
dying testimony to that religion which he had illustrated so 
well in life. Eternity will doubtless disclose that he, and such 
as he, accomplished more real good in life, and by the example 
they have left behind, than many brilliant men whose eloquence 
has entranced thousands, but whose lives lacked the savor of 
real godliness. 

JACOB KING. 

A biographical sketch of this eminent servant of Christ, by 
Eev. B. F. Tharp, was published in 1884 by Rev. W. C. Wilkes, 
in pamphlet form. The author is principal!}?- indebted to that 
publication for what follows, and he takes the liberty of trans- 
ferring not only the facts, but sometimes even the language, 
without further notice. 

In what county Jacob King was born, is not known to the 
author. But he feels safe in saying he w r as a native Georgian. 
His birth occurred September 6th, 1796, and he died in Upson 
county August 9th, 1862, being nearly sixty-seven years of age. 
He was hopefully converted to Christ in June, 1820, and was 
baptized by Rev. John M. Gray into the fellowship of New 
Hope church, Jones county, the first Sabbath in July following. 
He was married to Matilda Wilson, January 8th, 1817. 

Soon after his conversion he was impressed with the duty of 
preaching the gospel, but was restrained by a sense of his un- 
fitness and unworthiness until 1825, when, having settled on 
Flint river, in Upson county, his spirit was so stirred within 
him by the prevailing destitution, that he was constrained to 
make the attempt in the name of his Master. Having once 
put his hand to the plough, he Was not the man to look back. 
His first sermon was from the words, "He that believeth in me, 



Jacob King. 433 

though he were dead, yet shall he live ; and whosoever liveth 
and believeth in me, shall never die." John xi. 25, 26. 

In 1826, he was ordained as pastor of Bethlehem church. 
John Iiambrick and Henry Hooten composed the officiating 
presbytery, his ordination having taken place on his birthday, 
he being then thirty years of age. In the following October, 
he took the care of the Fellowship church, in which a great 
revival of religion was experienced and many were added unto 
the Lord. Throughout his life he was one of the most labori- 
ous of ministers. He generally preached to four churches, 
often supplied others on week days, and was indefatigable in 
his efforts in supplying the most destitute neighborhoods with 
the word of life. His zeal in this last particular exceeded that 
of any preacher the writer has ever known, and was, perhaps, 
never surpassed by any man of any age or country. The peo- 
ple of Upson county and the regions around will testify that 
there was not a " dark corner " which he failed to penetrate, 
nor a destitute neighborhood to which he did not bear the glad 
tidings. 

He was a powerful and fearless advocate of the temperance 
cause. In that frontier region, as it then was, intemperance 
prevailed to an alarming extent, and was unfortunately counte- 
nanced and encouraged by the example of many professors of 
religion, if not by the preaching of some ministers. The author 
has a vivid recollection of a "passage at arms" between Mr. 
King and a venerable minister of the anti-missionary order, the 
first time he ever heard the former preach. It occurred at an 
Association in Talbot county, in the fall of 1834, and on Sabbath 
forenoon, in presence of an audience consisting of thousands. 
Tlie good brother preached the first sermon, in which he pro- 
tested that he believed " sperits " was one of ' v God's good cree- 
turs," to be received with thankfulness, and said " he had a 
pain under his short ribs that morning, which he was confident 
might have been relieved by the use of some good sperits ; but, 
unfortunately, there was none to be had at the house where he 
staid, and so he was still suffering from the pain." As was the 
custom of the times, he was immediately followed by Mr. King, 
without an intermission. He announced his text: "And as he 
(Paul) reasoned of righteousness, temperance and judgment to 
28 



434 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

come, Felix trembled." His sermon, taken altogether, was a 
masterly effort; but especially when he came to speak of tem- 
perance, and the evils of dram-drinking, placing his hand upon 
his side and bending that long, lank form as if he was in great 
agony, he turned to his old brother and exclaimed, " No, sir! I 
wouldn't drink the stuff if I did have a pain under my short 
ribs." The effect was overwhelming, and his antagonist seemed 
utterly demolished. .During the remainder of that meeting no 
one dared to advocate the use of " sperits," at least not pub- 
licly. His manner was inimitable, and the foregoing statement 
gives but a faint idea of its effect on the occasion alluded to. 
Those who ever heard him may form some conception of it — 
none others can. His genius and fertile imagination never left 
him without the means of enforcing his views on this subject 
powerfully and successfully. One of the best temperance lec- 
turers in the State, who frequently heard Mr. King, said he had 
never met any man who could present the cause more attrac- 
tively and cogently. 

In the unfortunate division which took place in the Baptist 
denomination in Georgia on the subject of missions, he espoused 
the cause of benevolence, and urged its claims to the day of his 
death. He was surrounded by a powerful anti-influence, yet he 
maintained his cause with such versatility of talent, and with 
such powerful scriptural arguments, as to secure for it a steady 
advance and final triumph within his sphere of labor. When 
the division was consummated, one of the opposition said to 
him, "We shall see who are in the right, by the blessing of 
God, which shall follow the right." King accepted the test, 
and often pointed to the abundant blessing of God upon the 
labors of missionaries to prove to the opposition that ours is the 
right cause. He thought for himself on all subjects. No man 
was further from adopting an opinion upon the " say so " of an- 
other ; and it is believed to have been this natural independence 
of thought that led him to approve the plan of conducting mis- 
sions adopted by the Eehoboth Association, which was through 
the agency of a committee, and not through the Boards of the 
Southern Baptist Convention. He thought he saw in Conven- 
tions a power which might be abused, and, for this reason, did 
not favor them, nor often attend them. Believing that churches 



Jacob King. 435 

are the only organization necessary for the evangelization of 
the world, he was willing to unite churches in this work, for the 
sake of the strength secured by such union, but beyond that he 
was not willing to go. Hence, he was an earnest advocate of 
the first motion made in his Association to send out and support 
a missionary in Africa ; and when, after years of trial, it was 
found that two directors to the same work did not advance, but 
rather hindered it, he was equally earnest in advocating a sep- 
aration from the Boards. Yet no cause was dearer to his heart 
than that of missions, and to the world's salvation he gave the 
whole of his converted life, with the zeal and devotion of a 
primitive Apostle. 

His talents were of the first order. If we were confined to 
one word in describing the character of his mind, we should 
select genius. He thought, spoke and acted just like no other 
man ; and yet, all he said and did seemed appropriate and be- 
coming. It was appropriate in him, but would not have been 
so in any other man. He never aped any man, and whoever 
attempted to ape hi?n, made himself simply ridiculous. Yet 
there were a few who would run the risk. Like most of his 
cotemporaries, his literary advantages in early life were quite 
limited, yet he acquired a fine command of language, and wrote 
correctly and beautifully. He had an inexhaustible fund of an- 
ecdote, which he. knew how to use with telling effect. To all 
these rare faculties, he added an iron will. No man can be 
great without this, and this he possessed in an extraordinary 
degree. When he resolved to do a thing, it was sure to be done, 
unless it proved to be an impossibility. This force of will 
made him a man of great decision of character. He was tall of 
stature, exceedingly slender, and predisposed to pulmonary 
disease. At the time of his ordination his health was so feeble 
as to render it necessary for him to withdraw, during the sum- 
mer months, from his field of labor, and spend the time among 
the mountains of upper Georgia. He returned in the fall; but 
the ensuing summer it seemed imperatively necessary that he 
should again seek the recuperative influence of mountain air, 
and mountain scenery. He accordingly started on horse back; 
but while on the journey, thinking of the destitution he was 
leaving behind, he come to the conclusion to return and die at 



436 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

his post, if thnt should bo God's will. And return he did, but 
not to ..die; his health immediately improved, and he never 
again had to desert his people for want of physical strength. 
This incident reminds us of that eminent French general and 
patriot, Hoche, who, while in command of the army of Ger- 
many, and meditating a second invasion of Ireland, suddenly 
failed in health. Calling his physician to him, he said. "Give 
me a remedy for disease; but let it not be rest" Thus it was 
with our christian hero, he sought a remedy, but said, "Let it 
not be rest!" His bodily sufferings were often great, but the 
soul within nerved him with strength until he reached a good 
old age. How favorably does his conduct compare with that 
class of dyspectic pastors of fashionable city churches, who 
must needs have an annual summer vacation for travel and 
amusement, especially if the city is under a visitation of chol- 
era or yellow fever! 

Mr. King had a most fertile imagination, and descriptive 
powers of the first order. At a session of the Flint river As- 
sociation, about the year 1840, and when he was in his prime, 
he preached a sermon on the text, " Come thou, and all thy 
house into the Ark," of which the author received an account 
from the lips of that eminent saint and gifted minister, Eev. 
C. D. Mallary. He pronounced it one of the most masterly 
efforts he had ever heard. His congregation was made to see 
the stupendous fabric of the ark advancing to completion for 
one hundred and twenty years. They listened to the contempt 
poured upon Noah by his neighbors for building such a vessel 
on dry land, and to the awful warnings he gave them to pre- 
pare for the coming wrath. Yet they went on in their infidel- 
ity, "marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that 
Noah entered into the Ark." They were held spell-bound, 
while they were made to see the beasts of the field, even the 
wildest and most ferocious come flocking in. Finally the door 
is shut mysteriously as by an unseen hand: and then the clouds 
assume an unwonted aspect, the thunders roll, the lightnings 
flash, rains pour down from above, water-spouts send up their 
floods from beneath, storms howl over the face of the deep, 
ocean breaks over her bounds, and her maddening waves come 
rolling over valley and hill-tops, and mountains engulphing an 



Jacob King. 437 

unbelieving world in one common ruin. And then they were 
reminded that all this was but a faint figure of the deluge of 
God's wrath which awaits the wicked, and that Christ is the 
only Ark of safety. And when, finally, he reached out im- 
ploringly those long arms, and cried with that trumpet voice, 
while tears were streaming down that benevolent face, "Come 
thou, and all thy house into the Ark," his audience was said to 
have been swayed as by a mighty wind. The writer has heard 
a description of another of those efforts for which his ministry 
was remarkable. He had commenced a protracted meeting 
appointed by one of his churches, and had labored hard for 
several days. Finally the Sabbath found him with a prayer- 
less church, and a large but careless and unfeeling congrega- 
tion. In vain did he try to arouse their attention and impress 
their hearts. The meeting-house was situated in a forest with 
piles of granite rock here and there. Suddenly turning his 
back upon the congregation, and throwing open the window in 
rear of the pulpit, he began a most pathetic and touching ap- 
peal to the rocks and trees, calling upon the rock's to feel and 
the trees to weep over his unfeeling church and congregation. 
He continued in this strain some ten or fifteen minutes, and 
then, facing his audience again, raised his hands as if about to 
pronounce the benediction. A brother, springing to his feet, 
exclaimed with deep emotion, "Stop, brother King; don't dis- 
miss us; preach to us now, and we'll try to pray for you, rani 
for sinners "—or words to this effect. Taking advantage of the 
attention he had thus awakened, he did preach to them, and 
that with such unction and power that the meeting was pro- 
tracted, a glorious revival ensued, during which many were 
hopefully converted and added to the church. A volume might 
be filled with incidents like the foregoing, which occurred in 
the history of this remarkable man. 

He was naturally a logician ; not that he understood and prac- 
ticed the science as taught in the schools. He was above these 
rules by nature's own gift. He saw, at a glance, the meaning 
and force of a proposition, and few were more ready to turn a 
point upon an opponent. On one occasion he had gone to hear 
a Universalist preacher, and when the reverend gentleman 
closed, Mr. King arose, and, hat in hand, uttered one short, 



438 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

pithy, logical sentence, which brought the Universalist's whole 
effort into ridicule and contempt. 

His theology was just what such a man would be expected to 
believe and teach. He held to the universal and total depravity 
of human nature, to man's utter inability to recover himself, to 
the efficacy of the Spirit's work, and to the sufficiency of the 
atonement of Christ. He held to universal and unlimited invi- 
tations of mercy as being consistent with limitation in the ap- 
plication of the atonement. When listening to his discourses 
on the power of the cross, the hearer, would be convinced that 
no man ever loved the Saviour more sincerely. Upon hearing 
him in his happier moments, it would seem that if Paul had 
risen from the dead, he would have found nothing to condemn. 
His sermons were generally short, and he left his hearers wish- 
ing they had been longer. They were, however, formed after 
no model. It was impossible for such a mind to be trammeled 
by rules. Perhaps his sermons would have been liable to criti- 
cism, judged after the method of the schools, but none of the 
masters could have brought an audience to any given point 
with more order and certainty than he. He was eminently a 
great preacher, if by great be meant one who vindicates the 
whole truth, converts many souls, and ably recommends Jesus 
Christ as the only Saviour of sinners. Few men in the same 
time have preached more sermons and baptized more converts, 
and his converts generally wore well. His knowledge of hu- 
man nature made it difficult to deceive him, and there were 
few men who knew him who would have had the temerity to at- 
tempt it. Impostors and hypocrites generally give such men 
as he a wide berth. 

As a presiding officer he was affable, punctual, prompt, well 
informed and impartial. He presided over the Behoboth Asso- 
ciation as its moderator from its organization until called away 
from earth by the Master of Assemblies. He never failed to 
attend its sessions, and, it is believed, was invariably elected 
by a unanimous vote. He had an uncommon share of "com- 
mon sense ; ' — a faculty so very uncommon, that it ever makes 
distinguished philosophers statesmen, warriors or divines. If it 
was necessary at any time to administer reproof, it was done in 
such a manner that no one could take offense, and yet it never 



Jacob King. 439 

failed of its object. The author was a visitor to the Kehoboth As- 
sociation when its business meetings were held in a female col- 
lege, the church being given up for preaching. Mr. King noticed 
that some of the delegates and spectators were defiling the 
floor with tobacco juice. Eising in his place, and standing si- 
lent a moment, he pointed with that long bony finger at those 
signs of indiscretion, which were but too plainly visible, and 
remarked, " They tell me this is a female college — that is, as I 
understand it, a college for females ; before I would thus defile 
a woman's floor, I would walk down the street a hundred yards 
and spit in the sand !" A general smile passed over the audi- 
ence, but there was no more spitting on that woman's floor on 
that occasion. 

Mr. King was a true patriot. He loved his country. In the 
late struggle of the South for independence, his whole heart 
and soul was with the Confederacy, believing that the interests 
of the black race, as well as that of the white, were involved 
in the issue. No man was ever more kind to his servants, or 
considerate of their welfare than he. He plainly foresaw what 
has since been realized, that emancipation would be the ruin of 
the black man, and for this reason, if for no other, he sacrificed 
and prayed for the success of the Southern cause. Whenever 
a company of soldiers was to leave his county for the field of 
carnage and death, he was sure to be at the depot to give them 
words of encouragement, and to offer prayer on their behalf. 
He did not live to see the downfall of his people ; God merci- 
fully took him away in time to escape the impending evil. 

But his end drew near. Faithful to the last, he had preached 
in the open air, with more than his ordinary fervor, and thus 
contracted the disease which terminated his useful life. His 
death was such as might have been expected in the case of 
such a man — peaceful, happy, triumphant. 

He left no children. His widow survives him — a woman 
every way worthy to have been the wife of such a man. . 



440 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

JARED SANDERS DENNAKD. 

MISSIONARY TO AFRICA. 

The author acknowledges his indebtedness to Mr. John Smith, 
father-in-law of Mr. Dennard, for the use of papers and letters 
which are of inestimable value to his family, and which are, of 
themselves, exceedingly interesting. Among these is a sketch 
by Rev. A. T. Holmes, D. D., of which he makes free use, as if 
written by himself. No man was better qualified for the task 
than Dr. Holmes. 

The subject of this notice was born in Twiggs county, Geor- 
gia, October 28, 1818, where he was educated in an excellent 
academy, under Mr. Milton Wilder. In 1834, he removed with 
his parents to Houston county, and soon joined a company of 
volunteers, raised to protect the settlements from hostile Indi- 
ans. He served as a soldier about three months, and secured the 
confidence of his companions by his fearless and manly deport- 
ment. On his return home, after spending some months with- 
out any positive employment, he studied law under Kelly & 
Rice, in Perry, and was admitted to the bar July, 1839. He 
continued the practice of law about five years, and his friends 
were encouraged to hope that he would distinguish himself in 
the honorable profession which he had chosen. But "He who 
worketh all things after the counsel of his own will," and who 
makes kings, as well as soldiers and lawyers, his willing sub- 
jects in the day of his power, had other and more important 
work for him to do. Some time in the spring of 1845 he was 
made to feel that he was a guilty sinner. Under his deep con- 
victions, he mingled with the j^eople of God and listened to the 
preaching of the gospel as one who felt that he had a special 
interest in the glad tidings which it proclaims. In good earnest 
he sought the forgiveness of sin through the blood of Christ, 
and was soon enabled to rejoice in an humble hope of peace 
with God. 

In the commencement of his christian career, he seemed to 
realize, in a peculiar manner, the spirit of the Apostle, and his 
inquiry was, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?" To sub- 
mit to the authority of his Divine Master, to obey his com- 



Jared Sanders Dennard. 441 

mands, and to consecrate himself to bis service, seemed to 
constitute the spirit of his religion. He took a high position 
tit once as a christian, and secured fellowship with the people 
Of God, as one whose elavated purpose was to adorn the Sa- 
viour's doctrine, and to walk worthy of his high vocation. He 
was baptized by Dr. Holmes some time in the month of Octo- 
ber, 1845, and soon thereafter, yielding to his convictions of 
duty, he engaged in the important work of the christian minis- 
try. His knowledge of theology being quite limited, and being 
desirous of showing himself " approved unto God, a workman 
that need not to be ashamed," he became a diligent and prayerful 
student of the scriptures. It soon became obvious that he had 
entered upon the study of this Book of books with the full con- 
viction that it contained the will of God respecting himself and 
those among whom he expected to labor. With childlike sim- 
plicity he sat at the feet of the Great Teacher and learned of 
Him, and as he learned, he taught. In December, 1846, he was 
ordained, at the request of the Baptist church at Perry, and en- 
tered at once upon the work of an evangelist. 

After spending two years in closing up his business as a law- 
yer, he left the State of Georgia and settled in Alabama, when 
he abandoned the legal profession and devoted himself exclu- 
sively to the work of the ministry. He was soon called to the 
watchcare of four churches, his connection with which was 
characterized by prayerful faithfulness not only to them, but 
also to the unconverted of their congregations, for while he fed 
the flock of God, he manifested deep concern for the salvation 
of sinners. He continued in the service of these churches 
about three years, during which time they prospered greatly, 
From the time of his conversion, however, he had been im- 
pressed it was his duty to bear the news of salvation to be- 
nighted Africa. These impressions finally ripened into a fixed 
resolve, and he set about in earnest making the necessary pre- 
paration. It was believed that married men stood a better 
chance of success in that field, and, finding in Miss Frances 
Smith, daughter of John M. and Nancy H. Smith, one of kin- 
dred views on the subject of missions, and one whom he be- 
lieved would prove an "help-meet" to him indeed, he sought 
her hand in marriage. The following extracts from a letter to 



442 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

her father are expressive of his views arid feelings on this sub- 
ject : " For years the subject has been impressed upon mj mind 
in such a manner as to make me dissatisfied in every situation 
in which I have been placed, and often to make me unhappy. 
I reasoned upon the subject in this way : Our blessed Lord and 
Master commands us to 'go into all the world and preach the 
gospel to every creature.' The benighted heathens are God's 
creatures — for them a Saviour has died. They have never 
heard the gospel. Under the command of Christ, it is the duty 
of somebody to go and preach it to them. Why is it not my 
duty as well as that of any one else ? Who can determine this 
solemn and important question ? Can relations or friends do 
it ? Can they think and feel as I think and feel on this vastly 
important subject ? Can they come in as judge between me 
and my God, and decide what is my duty ? "Will that release 
me from the obligations I owe to Christ, who says to me, and 
to all who would follow him, ' If any man come to me, and 
hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and 
brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be 
my disciple.' ' He that loveth father or mother more than me, 
is not worthy of me ; and he that loveth son or daughter more 
than me, is not worthy of me.' Are they prepared to make an 
impartial decision ? Who, then, was to decide this question ? 
I, and I only, could decide it. I have decided it, prayerfully 
and rightly, I trust. Go 1 must, whatever the cost may be." 

Mr. Dennard then proceeded to apply the same course of ar- 
gument in the case of Mr. Smith's daughter, who, it would 
seem, had consented to become his wife and accompany him 
to Africa, provided her parents would give their consent. 
What it cost them to give that consent, may be imagined but 
not described. It was given, however, and they were united 
in marriage on the 19th of June, 1853. Having received an ap- 
pointment from the Foreign Mission Board at Eichmond, they 
sailed for Africa, from Boston, via England, on the steamer Ni- 
agara, on the 6th of July following, and arrived at Lagos the 
29th of August. The following: brief extracts from letters from 
him and his wife afford some idea of their feelings. The first is 
from him, and is dated July 7th : 

" We are now at sea. We sailed from Boston at twelve 



Jared Sanders Dennard. 443 

o'clock on yesterday. We could not but feel a little sorrowful 
as our native land receded from our sight. Tears gathered in 
our eyes and rolled down our cheeks when we thought of those 
whom we love so well, that are far away from us, and every 
moment now widening the distance between us. This feeling 
of sorrow was only momentary. We thought of the high and 
holy mission in which we are engaged. We thought of dark, 
benighted Africa, and her millions who are perishing for want 
of the bread of life ! And as we thus thought, we could adopt 
as our own the sentiments of the hymn — 

' Yes, we hasten from you gladly, 
From the scenes we loved so well : 
Far away ye billows bear us— 
Lovely, native land, farewell.' " etc. 

The following is from Mrs. Dennard, and is dated 

''Lagos, Africa, September 7, 1853. 

" Dear Sister : — We are now at the house of Mr. Golmer, a 
missionary of the Church of England. We came to his house 
immediately upon landing, which was on the 29th of last 
month. Your brother and myself were very unwell then, and 
have been quite sick since, but are now fast improving. In- 
deed, I think I may safely say my health is better than when 
I left home. Our friends here think we are well prepared for 
the climate. I am sorry to say we may be detained here for 
several weeks, owing to the hostility of one of the kings, who 
is trying to make war with the Lagos people ; so we can't go 
any farther until peace is made. We have met with kind 
friends wherever we have been." 

They were detained at Lagos only a short time, however, as 
the following extracts will show : 

"Abbeokuta, September 19, 1853. 
" My Dear Parents: — Blessed be God, even the Father of our 
Lord Jesus Christ, the father of mercies, and the God of all 
comfort, we arrived at this place in safety Friday. It is in the 
interior of Africa, and about seventy-five miles from the coast. 
The population is estimated at between fifty and seventy-five 
thousand. * * * It seems to be a city of rocks. There are 



414 Georgia Baptists — Biographical, 

in view of the place where we are staying two high hills, which 
arc almost mountains of solid granite. The name Abbeokuta 
means under a rock. We do not intend to establish a station 
here, but go further into the interior. * * * Fannie and I 
have both had an attack of African ^evar. I was attacked the 
night before we left the ship, and she the next day, before we 
reached the shore; but on landing, we were met by kind chris- 
tian friends, Mr. and Mrs. Golmer, Episcopal missionaries at 
Lagos, at whose house we staid until we recovered, which was 
about a week. Our sickness- was short but severe. Fannie 
seems to have entirely recovered from it; I am yet feeble. * * * 
From Lagos to this place we had quite a romantic trip. All 
our company, together with our baggage, came up the river 
Ogin in canoes, rowed by the people. We were three days on 
the river, camping every night upon its banks. Everything 
was new and strange to us. The large, tall trees, the thick 
undergrowth called the bush, so thick in some places that it 
would seem impossible for a rabbit to penetrate it; the rich and 
luxuriant vines, that hang over the banks of the river; the 
monkeys, parrots and various other beautiful birds, all so dif- 
ferent from anything we had ever seen before, made it exceed- 
ingly interesting to us. * * * As far as we have seen the 
people, we are much pleased with them, and entertain great 
hopes of being useful to them. We have many evidences that 
God has prepared them for the reception of the gospel, and 
that thousands of them are now ready and waiting to hear the 
glad tidings of salvation. Ethiopia is stretching forth her 
hands unto God. Fannie and I are happy, and it is cause of 
exceeding great joy to us that God, in His infinite mercy, has 
chosen us to bear an humble part in the great work of regen- 
erating Africa, and our daily prayer is that he would qualify 
us for it and make us just such missionaries as he will own and 
bless." 

He seems not to have remained long at Abbeokuta. It was 
deemed necessary that one of the missionaries should locate at 
Lagos, in order that regular communication might be kept up 
with the missionaries in the interior, and that supplies might 
be forwarded to them. For this purpose he returned to the 



Jared Sanders Dennard. 445 

latter place. How long he had been there before the death of 
his wife, is unknown to the author, but it could not have been 
long. Intelligence of this mournful event was communicated, 
to her parents in the following sentences : 

" Lagos, January 21st, 1854. 

" My Dear Parents : — Your dear daughter is dead. She died 
in this place on the 4th day of this month, after an illness of 
nine days. Her disease was nearer the yellow fever than any 
that I know of. I suppose it was a very malignant case of 
what is- termed African fever. She was not very sick until the 
fifth day. In the morning of that day she seemed to be clear 
of fever, and was so well that, about ten or eleven o'clock, she 
got up and dressed. She sat down on the side of the bed and 
complained of being chilly. She lay down and drew a little 
covering over herself. She soon commenced shivering, and I 
discovered* she had a severe ague. I threw some blankets over 
her. She told me her hands and feet were very cold — so cold 
that she could not move her fingers and toes. 1 felt of them, 
and they were as cold and stiff as death. I was afraid she was 
then dying. I applied stimulants to them, and while I was rub- 
bing her feet, she exclaimed, ' Oh ! I shall die ! If I die now, 
my race will be a short one.' In a few minutes the ague passed 
off, her hands and feet became warm, and was followed by a^ 
burning fever — such a fever as is known only in this climate. 
She soon became delirious, and remained so, except at short in- 
tervals, until her death. Soon in the morning of the day on 
which she died, as I was sitting on the bed beside her, she 
opened her eyes and looked at me with a natural smile on her 
countenance, and said, 'How pleasant I feel; I believe I shall 
not die.' I asked her if she had thought she would die. She 
replied, she had thought so all the time. I asked her why she 
had not told me. She answered, ' I knew it would distress you 
so much.' Immediately after speaking these words, she again 
fell into that sleepy, delirious state in which she had been for 
the last four clays. About ten o'clock I had her placed in a 
warm bath, This revived her very much. She seemed, for a 
while, to ccrae entirely to her senses. I sat down beside her 
and took hold of her hand. She squeezed mine, and said, ' Oh ! 



446 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

my dear, sweet, precious husband ! ' I soon discovered she was 
again sinking. Her mind again wandered, and she remained in 
that condition until she died, which mournful event occurred 
that evening, about five o'clock. Her body now rests in Mr. 
Golmer's graveyard ; her spirit is with Christ." 

After giving expression to the most pathetic and heart-rend- 
ing lamentations over his great loss, he proceeds : " I do not re- 
gret coming here ; I have never regretted it. At one time there 
arose in my mind something like a thought of regret. I think 
it was the third day after we arrived here. The night before 
we left the steamer I was attacked with the fever, and next 
day, before we reached the shore, (we had above five miles to 
go in a boat from the steamer to the shore,) she was also at- 
tacked. And while we were sick at Mr. Golmer's, both in the 
same room, she on one side and I on the other — neither of us 
able to assist the other — once, when I was looking at her, I, for 
a moment, regretted our coming here ; but it was for a moment 
only. My mind was immediately directed to Calvary, and there 
I beheld our blessed Saviour nailed to the cross — hanging, groan- 
ing, bleeding and dying. My heart was melted with love, my 
soul was made glad, and I rejoiced that he had called us to the 
high privilege of suffering for his sake. While I live, I desire 
to live for Christ." 

The reader will please bear in mind that the foregoing senti- 
ments were expressed by Dennard only two weeks after he had 
closed the eyes of his youthful and lovely wife with his own 
hands in " the dark land of Ham," and consigned her precious 
remains to the earth. And yet he does not regret having un- 
dertaken the mission, and still retains the desire to live for 
Christ. What an instance of moral heroism! What an illus- 
tration of the power of christian faith ! He " endured as see- 
ing Him who is invisible." 

Mr. Dennard seems to have remained at Lagos, after the 
death of his wife, until late in the following spring, when we 
hear of him again at Abbeokuta. Only two or three letters 
were received from him at the latter place, when his death is re- 
ported by Eev. T. J. Bowen, under date of June 24th. He says : 
" Brother Dennard is dead. He was attacked with severe fever 
on the 7th instant. After being considered entirely out of dan- 



Jared Sanders Dennard. 447 

ger, he was seized again on the 17th, and expired next day. 
During his illness, he was carefully attended to, not only by 
the missionaries, but also by an excellent physician, Dr. Levine, 
of the Eoyal Navy. He died in the faith. I may add, also, 
that he died at his post, like a good soldier of the cross. I 
arrived here to-day, having come to look after brother Den- 
nard's affairs, and to employ an agent to forward supplies to 
Ijaye." Thus did his sun go down at noon-day. Though he 
was not permitted to accomplish all for Africa which he had 
purposed and desired, yet he had obeyed what he conceived to 
be the call of God, "and it was accounted unto him for right- 
eousness." As Bowen says, " he died at his post." He fell with 
his armor on, and with his face to the foe. The Master said to 
him, " It is enough — come up higher." c: Well done, good and 
faithful servant ; enter thou into the joys of thy Lord ! " 

In person, Mr. Dennard was rather under the medium size ; 
his countenance was exceedingly pleasant and benign, but indi- 
cated stability of character and fixedness of purpose ; in man- 
ners, he was affable, calm and dignified. Altogether, he was a 
most interesting character, and when his death was announced, 
the saints " made great lamentation over him." 

Mrs. Frances Dennard was born in Upson county, Georgia, 
the 24th of August, 1833, and was baptized by Eev. C. C. Willis, 
at Harmony church, Muscogee county, in August, 18-17, in the 
fourteenth year of her age. Though so young, her friends had 
great confidence in her piety. From the time she embraced the 
Saviour as her hope and salvation, she felt a strong desire to 
devote her life to the missionary work, and to the day of her 
marriage with Mr: Dennard, she devoted herself to the prepa- 
ration of her mind and heart for this glorious undertaking. 
With the chosen companion of her toils and sufferings, she 
sleeps in peace beyond the ocean. Having aided in lighting 
the torch that is to shine brighter and brighter upon benighted 
Africa, they rest from their labors in obedience to the command 
of Him who sent them forth, and who will, in due time, supply 
their places with others. 



448 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

JAMES PERRYMAIST. 

The subject of this brief sketch was born in Columbia county, 
Georgia, January 28th, 1795, and was the son of Rev. Elisha 
Ferryman. He was baptized by Kev. William Henderson, at 
Talbottou, in 1829. From his first entrance upon his christian 
course, he felt that " the fire of the Lord was in his bones," and 
that "he was weary with forbearing, and could not stay." His 
education being quite limited, he applied himself diligently and 
perseveringly to its improvement, and soon acquired a fair 
knowledge of the English language, and made some progress 
in the Latin and Greek. He was passionately fond of history, 
especially of ecclesiastical history, and few men of his day accu- 
mulated a larger fund of historical information, or knew better 
how to use it, than himself. His familiarity with the Old and 
New Testaments, even before he commenced preaching, was re- 
markable. Thus equipepd, he began his useful career. 

In 1834, he was ordained at Talbotton by John Ross, Joseph 
Hand, Hiram Powell and Robert Fleming, and was soon en- 
gaged actively and usefully in serving the churches, in which 
glorious revivals were experienced, and many were added unto 
the Lord. 

Soon after his ordination, a general separation took place 
throughout the State between the missionary and anti-mission- 
ary parties of the Baptist denomination. It was like tearing 
asunder soul and body for him to part with his brethren ; but, 
in a matter like this, he could not long hesitate, and so he fell 
on the missionary side, though, personally, he was strongly at- 
tached to many who were anti-missionaries. In those times, 
great difference of opinion and much excitement prevailed on 
the temperance cause. Mr. Perryman went strongly for the re- 
formation, and, as he was no half-way man in anything, he 
made enemies for himself of those who were of the contrary 
sentiment and practice, especially of liquor dealers. He was 
also a very decided Baptist, and was by no means chary in ex- 
pressing his views as such. The consequence was, that he -fre- 
quently gave offense to his poedo-Baptist brethren, with whom, 
as a general thing, he was rather unpopular. Yet, such was his 
intelligence, honesty and probity of character, that he com- 



James 0. Screven, 449 

manded the respect of all men, even though they disagreed in 
sentiment with him. 

He was for many years moderator of the Columbus Associa- 
tion, (one of the most intelligent and influential religious bodies 
in the State,) and then of the Friendship, with which he was. 
connected the latter part of his life. For several years preced- 
ing his death, the state of his health would allow of his preach- 
ing but seldom. The Master whom he served finally released 
him from labor, and he departed in peace March 12th, 1864, in 
the seventieth year of his age. 

JAMES O. SCREVEN. 

This excellent man was born in Savannah, Georgia, Febru- 
ary 4th, 1804. He was the oldest son of Rev. Charles 0. Scre- 
ven, D. D., and a half brother of Rev. Charles B. Jones, of 
Florida. He was brought up mostly in Sunbury, Liberty 
county, where he was baptized by his father, in the spring of 
1828, the year after he graduated at Franklin College, now the 
State University. While in college, and for a few months after 
his return home, he was quite wild, and his condition was a 
source of unspeakable distress to his devoutly pious father, and 
other pious relatives. Their prayers prevailed, and he was soon 
found at the feet of his Eedeemer, "clothed and in his right 
mind." The precise date Of his licensure and ordination has 
not been ascertained, but it was not long after his baptism. 
He was married in 1832, on Hilton Head Island, South Caro- 
lina, to Miss Eleanor S. Talbird, daughter of Captain Henry 
Talbird. During the next ensuing seven years, he resided on 
his patrimonial estate, known as " the Retreat," Bryan county, 
and employed his time preaching to the negroes on St. Catha- 
rine's and Ossabaw Islands, and also to the destitute in the upper 
part of Bryan. In 1844 he was employed by the Baptist 
church in Savannah to preach to the colored people on the 
plantations contiguous to the city, and during 1845 he labored 
as co-pastor of Rev. R. Fuller, D. D., at Beaufort, South Caro- 
lina, preaching to the branches, or out-stations, of the Beaufort 
church. As several young men of that church were just en- 
tering upon the work of the ministry, Mr. Screven felt at lib- 
29 



450 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

crty to retire from that field, the more especially, as he, about 
that time, received a call from the Baptist church at Waynes- 
ville, Georgia, newly constituted, in a section of the State 
where great destitution existed. He devoted four years to this 
inviting and fruitful field, where his labors were abundant, and 
where his name is still held in sweet remembrance, and was 
only compelled to retire from it by the failure of his health. 

In the year 1850, he removed to LaGrange, Troup county. 
After his health had become somewhat restored, he labored as 
an agent for the Domestic Mission Board, Marion, Alabama, 
several years. During a portion of the late war, he was sus- 
tained by the same board as a missionary to the soldiers in and 
around that place. For such a work, especially among the 
sick and wounded in the hospitals, few men were as well quali- 
fied as Mr. Screven. Like Huckins, of Charleston, South Caro- 
lina, he became a martyr to his zeal and self-sacrificing devo- 
tion. He taxed his constitution, which was naturally feeble, 
beyond its capacity for endurance. His health gradually failed, 
and, on the 15th of May, 1864, the Master, whom he had served 
so long and so faithfully, called him to his reward in heaven. 
Says the partner of his joys and sorrows: "During his last 
sickness, he was uniformly cheerful, and greatly enjoyed the 
visits of his friends, whom he conversed with so pleasantly 
that they could not realize that he was so near his end. There 
was no gloom -around his deathbed. He frequently spoke of 
the joys of heaven, and expressed a longing desire to be with 
his Saviour. On Saturday, previous to his death, he said : ' How 
delightful would it be if I could be to-morrow in heaven ! ' " He 
left a wife, one son and three daughters. 

Having given this brief outline of his life and labors, the writer 
confesses his entire incompetency for the correct delineation 
of the character of Mr. Screven. Who can describe goodness, 
meekness, holiness ? Who can, to his own satisfaction, or to that 
of others, delineate a character in which all the christian graces 
were concentered and shone bo conspicuously? From a re- 
port, recorded in the minutes of the LaGrange church, of which 
he had been a member about fourteen years, the following sen- 
tences are extracted: "His marked religious characteristics 
were, unusual love for the word of God and prayer, and un- 



Jarvis G. Johnson. 451 

wavering confidence in the promise of God to make suitable 
temporal and spiritual provision for all his children, and a hu- 
mility and sweetness of christian temper, preserved through 
all vicissitudes, which subdued into reverence and love all with 
whom ho came in contact. The most indifferent and irreligious 
took knowledge of him that he had been with Jesus, and im- 
bibed largely of his meek and lowly and laborious spirit. Pie 
lived and labored in an atmosphere of prayer, and died in holy 
triumph. The church take a mournful pleasure in cherishing 
his memory." 

Verily, was James 0. Screven a good man. 

JAKYIS G. JOHNSON. 

This estimable young man was born in Harris county, Geor- 
gia, October 17th, 1832. His parents were members of the 
Baptist church. Of choice he labored most of his youth on 
his father's farm, and enjoyed but slender opportunities of 
education, until he had attained to manhood. In early life he 
gave his heart to the Saviour, and was baptized by Eev. Early 
Greathouse, into Bethlehem church, in the eastern part of said 
county, in 1852. Being impressed with the duty of preaching 
the gospel, he took a regular course in Mercer University, and 
graduated with distinction in the summer of 1859. It would 
seem that he had been licensed to preach before entering upon, 
his collegiate course. A month or so after his graduation, he 
was unanimously called to the pastorship of the church at 
Hamilton, was ordained the 11th day of December, following, 
by Eev. W. D. Atkinson and Eev. C. C. Willis, and continued 
pastor of said church until death terminated his earthly career. 
His relations as a pastor were borne by him with uncommon 
modesty, disinterestedness and fidelity. He maintained with 
meekness, yet with great firmness, the strictest discipline, while 
he warmly commended to 'his charge the approved religious 
enterprises of the day. Though superior to most of his minis- 
tering brethren, with whom he was associated, in natural and 
acquired endowments, he ever manifested towards them the 
utmost respect and deference. 

His personal piety was of a high order. For his devoted- 



452 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

ncss to prayer and the study of the scriptures, for his tender 
and persevering attention to the poor and dependent, for his 
courageous vindication of the claims of the gospel and of the 
right of all men to enjoy unrestricted access to it, the name of 
Jarvis Johnson will be ever held in sweet remembrance. His 
labors were abundant, and were abundantly blessed even in his 
own brief ,day. But, now that he is gone, his ministering 
brethren testify that the fruits of his labors are even more 
abundant than in his lifetime. 

The disease of which he died was contracted from preach- 
ing in Johnston's army, while that army was in winter quarters 
around Dalton, in March, 1864. He made out to reach his 
home in Harris county, where he suffered greatly from inflam- 
mation of the stomach and bowels, for weeks before death came 
to his relief. His last illness was characterized by much prayer, 
by unwavering faith, and by the most entire submission to the 
will of God. With him, "the ruling passion strong in death " 
was an earnest desire for the salvation of sinners. He had a 
word for every one who approached him; nor did he cease to 
plead for Christ until he ceased to breathe, which was on the 
24th day of April, 1864. 



CHARLES D. MALLARY, D. D. 

Charles Dutton Mallary was born of worthy and respect- 
able parents, in West Poultney, Rutland county, Vermont, on 
the 23d of January, 1801. One of his brothers, Rollin C. Mal- 
lary, became an eminent lawyer, and represented his native 
State for many years in the United States Congress, where he 
occupied a commanding position as a debater, and exerted, as 
chairman of the committee on manufactures, a powerful influ- 
ence in directing the legislation of the country. After com- 
pleting the usual preparatory studies, the subject of this sketch 
entered Middlebury College, in August, 1817. He was a col- 
lege-mate, if not class-mate, of that distinguished Methodist di- 
vine, Rev. Stephen Olin, and also of Rev. Dr. Howe, of the 
Presbyterian Theological Seminary at Columbia, South Caro- 
lina. He graduated in August, 1821, with the first honor — a 



Charles D. Mallary, D. D. 453 

fact sufficiently indicative of his superior talents and his dili- 
gent application as a student. 

From his earliest years he had been the subject of deep reli- 
gious impressions, which he was accustomed to ascribe in large 
measure to the instructions and prayers of his pious parents, 
especially of his devout and honored mother. In the sixteenth 
year of his age, during the prevalence of a revival, he experi- 
enced that great moral change which renewed his heart and 
gave him a trembling hope of salvation. Shortly after this oc- 
currence he entered college, and then, owing to various circum- 
stances, a long season of doubt and declension ensued in his 
spiritual history, which gradually darkened into dejection and 
despair. The distress of his mind was similar to that of Bun- 
yan, and the poet, Cowper, in their awful days of desertion. 
Indeed, his companions trembled for the stability of his reason, 
and he himself was conscious of treading on the brink of in- 
sanity. At length, through infinite mercy, the cloud broke and 
rolled away ; his feet were taken out of the horrible pit, and he 
stood on the rock of ages, with a new song in his mouth. After 
canvassing the comparative claims of the various denomina- 
tions, (his inclinations rather leaning to the Congregational- 
ists,) the path of duty became plain, and he was baptized into 
the fellowship of the Baptist church in his native town, in 
June, 1822, by the. pastor, Kev. Clark Kendrick. 

After his graduation Mr. Mallary spent a year as a teacher of 
youth in his native State. In October, 1822, he bent his steps 
southward, and, passing through Charleston, settled for a while 
at Cambridge, Abbeville district, South Carolina. Before leaving 
Yermont, his mind had been exercised with reference to the 
ministry, and he had resolved, so soon as providence should 
show an open door, that he would engage in preaching the 
gospel. Circumstances now being favorable, he commenced 
this work, and was soon licensed as a minister. Early in the 
year 1824, in obedience to a call from the Baptist church in 
that place, he removed to Columbia, the capital of the State, 
where he was ordained in April of the same year. He.re, too, on 
the 11th of July, 1825, he married Miss Susan Mary Evans, daugh- 
ter of John and Sarah Evans, of Georgetown, South Carolina, 
and grand-daughter, on the maternal side, of that eminent man 



454 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

of God, Rev. Edmund Botsford. In this union, according to 
his own testimony, lie found "more unalloyed enjoyment than 
generally falls to the lot of man." The excellent companion of 
his youth, and the mother of the only two children who sur- 
vive him, Charles and llollin, died of consumption, at Milledge- 
ville, Georgia, in 1834. 

At the expiration of two years, Mr. Mallary left Columbia 
and settled below that city, in what is known as the Fork, 
taking charge of the Be ul ah and Congaree churches. In 1830, 
he accepted a call from the Baptist church at Augusta, Georgia, 
where he remained four years. In 1834, he removed to Mil- 
legeville. Here, however, his pastorate was brief, embracing 
not quite two years. A constitution, feeble at best, and often 
assailed with attacks of illness, disqualified him to a consider- 
able extent for the steady, wearing round of pastoral duties, 
and necessitated frequent changes in his place of abode. The 
years 1837, 1838 and 1839 he devoted as an agent to the inter- 
ests of Mercer University. The year 1840 he was employed as 
a missionary in the service of the Central Association. Per- 
haps this was the period of his highest usefulness. His powers 
were fully matured. He moved in congenial and appreciative 
circles. The peculiar exigencies of the denomination roused all 
his sacred energies, and thus these few years in Central Georgia 
witnessed the best results of his public career. In company 
with Dawson, Campbell and others, he engaged in extensive 
preaching tours, and in protracted meetings, which were at- 
tended with memorable revivals, and which operated power- 
fully in giving tone and character to the Baptists of Georgia. 
He seemed to live daily in the very atmosphere of heaven. 
Every effort, whether of preaching or exhortation, was attended 
by the unction from above, and christians improved in knowledge 
and holiness, w T hile sinners, in great numbers, were added to 
the churches as seals of his ministry. 

In December, 1840, he was married to his second wife, Mrs. 
Mary E. Welch, of Twiggs county, Georgia, a woman of very 
superior talents and worth, and most happily adapted to cheer 
his own disposition, which was rather prone to dejection and 
melancholy. She preceded him but a little to the skies, having 
died suddenly on the 28th of August, 1862. After this second 



Charles D. Mallary, D. D. 455 

marriage, he took up his abode in Twiggs county, near Jeffer- 
sonville, on his wife's plantation, where he resided for several 
years. Though now in a somewhat sequestered situation, 
where most ministers would have considered themselves enti- 
tled to retirement and repose after so many labors, he indulged 
in no relaxation. Like his Master, he sanctified even his hours 
of rest with benevolent deeds. His recreations were other 
men's toils. During the period of his residence in Twiggs 
county he served, more or less, the following churches : New 
Providence, Macon, Forsyth, Evergreen, Jeffersonville, Irwin- 
ton and Wood's meeting-house. It was through his efforts, and 
mainly at his expense, that a comfortable house of worship was 
built at Jeffersonville, and the churches at that place and at Ever- 
green were started through his instrumentality. But in 1848 
the LaGrange church summoned him from his laborious retreat. 
He responded to the summons, and, though constantly failing 
in strength, continued in this connection for four years. In 
1852, finding it impossible to prosecute his pastoral labors, he 
retired to the neighborhood of Albany, where he passed the re- 
mainder of his days in such services as his physical infirmities 
permitted. He loved to preach, and he never ceased preaching 
until the end. His finished his useful career at Magnolia 
Springs, Sumter county, on Sunday noon, the 81st of July, 
1864, aged sixty-three years. 

In turning from this meagre outline of the more marked 
events and incidents in his career, it is exceedingly difficult to 
present in any moderate limits a just review and estimate of 
his character and services. As we attempt to recall him to 
our attention and survey, what, we naturally ask, most distin- 
guished him-asaman? What, in particular, constituted his 
individuality, gave him his definite " form and pressure," and 
raised him above the dull uniformity of the great human mass ? 
One reply springs to the lips of all who knew him well — his 
piety. He was singularly and greatly good, a distinction " above 
all Greek or Eoman fame ;" and this was his general reputa- 
tion. He was marked by more christian virtues and by fewer 
faults than any man the author has ever known. He was by 
nature an amiable man, formed to love and be loved, peaceful 
in spirit, and wholly free from a temper violent and petulant 



456 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

in its manifestations. He was also a man of stern integrity, of 
incorruptible honesty, and withal of unflinching fidelity to his 
convictions of right and truth. Without being aggressively 
bold, he did not in the least lack decision and firmness, and his 
characteristic gentleness never sank into tame compliance with 
the demands of error and injustice. Probably no ill natured 
or carping man of the world, nor splenetic church member, ever 
seriously questioned his essential uprightness. On such a basis 
as this the fabric of his piety was reared. Over such amiabili- 
ties as these it cast its heavenly charm, while it woke in his 
own heart a variety of new and sacred passions. 

His piety was ardent and intense, manifesting itself, not in 
occasional raptures and excited emotions, but in a habitual 
frame of devotion. Eeligion was the atmosphere in which he 
lived, moved and had his being. He did not separate his life 
into sacred and secular, saying, this is for God, and that is for 
the world — it was all for God. His religion sanctified his rec- 
reations, and gave a heavenly flavor to his worldly enjoyments. 
He loved much. The name of Jesus was fragrant and precious 
to him, always in his heart, and often on his lips. He loved 
the brethren. He was a lover of all good men. Though a de- 
voted Baptist, holding our distinctive principles as firmly and 
conscientiously as one could well do, he still consorted joyfully 
and fraternally with all who honored the Saviour and bore his 
image. He was emphatically a man of prayer. " The spirit of 
grace and supplications " was possessed by him in a measure 
which, it is believed, has seldom been equaled, and never sur- 
passed, in modern times. Early in his ministry, he laid out for 
himself a regular plan of prayer, assigning certain general sub- 
jects to each day in the week, to which he faithfully adhered. 

Dr. Mallary was singularly kind and charitable in his judg- 
ments of others. He was never heard to utter a biting sar- 
casm, a stinging jest, a cruel innuendo, nor even a word that 
savored of slander against a fellow-creature. He literally al- 
most seemed to " think no evil." He always put the best pos- 
sible construction upon conduct, and when compelled to con- 
demn, he did it with pain and sorrow, and, very likely, with 
the final suggestion of some extenuating or hopeful view of the 
delinquent. He was no severe critic or censor of his brethren. 



Charles B. Mallary, B. B. 457 

He appeared absolutely a stranger to that mean spirit which, 
I am afraid, has been the too just reproach of the ministry: a 
spirit of envy, jealousy and rivalship. It gave him no pain 
that a brother should outshine or outstrip him, and it did not 
seem to occur to him that a minister, by superior gifts and 
graces, could ever be in his way. He was a model church mem- 
ber, which is not always the case with retired preachers. He 
was the pastor's friend and counselor. He did not plead or 
employ his ministerial prerogative as a ground of exemption 
from ordinary duties in the church, but bore his own burden, 
and often more than his own, with cordial patience. 

The blessing of the peacemaker was on him. His own spirit 
was tranquil and pacific, and, so far from widening breaches and 
exasperating dissensions by a fierce temper of partisanship, he 
labored to compose strifes and reconcile alienated brethren. 

He was a willing and generous contributor of his worldly sub- 
stance to every good cause. In his ministrations, he insisted 
much on the duty of giving, a duty he never undertook to dis- 
charge by proxy. 

His caution in speaking of the faults of others has already 
been referred to. It is proper to add that he rigidly ruled out 
of his speech all foolish jesting, and more especially all that 
approached impurity. While occasionally indulging the quiet 
humor of delicate wit, of which he had a rich vein, his conver- 
sation was never stained by malice or pollution. He seemed to 
accept, as a rule for himself, that maxim of the ancient Per- 
sians, which pronounced "unlawful to speak of what it was 
not lawful to do." 

His politeness may be said, in part at least, to have been a devel- 
opment of his piety. If politeness may be defined as kindness, 
expressing itself in kind and self-denying acts, he was a model 
of this cheap yet potent virtue, immeasurably superior to Ches- 
terfield, or any of his school. While he never affected the airs 
and artificial graces of a polished man of society, and would 
have scorned them, if he could scorn anything, he was still a 
pattern of courtesy ', and was guided by the nice instinct of chris- 
tian feeling to the performance of those various acts which 
marked him for a true gentleman. 

If there was any defect in his christian character, perhaps it 



458 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

was a lack of that sort of cheerfulness which gives to piety a 
pleasant and winning aspect, and which, in particular, recom- 
mends it to the young. Though removed as far as possible 
from a morose and prim severity, he displayed a little too much, 
probably, the sad and sombre side of religion. It is thought his 
usefulness would have been enhanced if the bright and joyous 
elements of piety had been more conspicuous in his life. The 
mention of this defect as the most serious which criticism can 
suggest in the review of his christian character, only serves to 
demonstrate how extraordinary that character was, and how 
far elevated in holy grandeur above the vast majority of latter 
day examples of saintship. And yet Charles D. Mallary enter- 
tained the most painful conceptions of his own utter un worthi- 
ness, and worthlessness even, in the sight of God. Indeed, his 
unaffected humility was one of the most striking traits of his 
piety. His views of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, and of the 
holiness of God, were such as to bow him in the very dust. A 
delicate spiritual modesty softened and refined every manifesta- 
tion of his inner life. A volume that would do justice to his 
piety would be a book of devotion not inferior to the biogra- 
phies of Hemy Martyn, Samuel Pearce and Edward Payson. 

While Dr. Mallary will be remembered for his goodness, that 
goodness would not have been so conspicuous and noteworthy, 
if it had not been associated with a mind of uncommon ca- 
pacity and vigor. His intellect and heart operated in delight- 
ful harmony, imparting to each other light and strength, and, 
in their blended movements, their almost perfect synthesis, pre- 
senting us with a conrplete and effective character. His mental 
endowments were of a very high order. It would, doubtless, 
be extravagant to assert for him the possession of that sort of 
ability which originates new thoughts, strikes out new paths of 
investigation, and makes memorable contributions to the stock 
of human knowledge. It is only a very few, in the long suc- 
cession of ages, who can justly be assigned to this intellectual 
rank, and be classed with those sceptered kings in the realms 
of thought, " who rule us from their urns." But, while not 
claiming for him this style of greatness, we insist that his tal- 
ents were such as to make him a man of special mark. To the 
more solid qualities of the understanding, such as a quick and 



Charles D. Mallary, D. D. 459 

clear perception, a calm, sound judgment, a 'tenacious memory, 
a capacity for bold and vigorous thinking, he added a fertile 
fancy and a soaring, creative imagination, which enabled him 
to illustrate and adorn whatever he touched. His grasp of sub- 
jects was broad and firm, indicating intellectual strength and 
comprehensiveness. His mental operations were distinguished, 
not so much by formal logical processes — by regular advances, 
in which each minute step was ostentatiously displayed — as by 
rapid intuitions, and by a series of steadily progressive leaps 
and bounds towards his goal. Without any technical elabora- 
tion and parade of argument, he was still a solid and able rea- 
soner. There was great symmetry and admirable balance in 
his intellectual constitution, no one faculty being developed out 
of proportion to, and at the expense of, another faculty. Had 
his will been a little more positive and imperative, and his taste 
a little more exacting, his mental conformation would have 
gained somewhat in imposing and attractive force. 

This richly endowed intellect had been well disciplined and 
furnished with ample stores of knowledge. He was fortunate, 
as we have seen, in his early opportunities of education, and 
these he zealously improved. Subsequently, he had been, as 
circumstances allowed, a diligent student. His range of ac- 
quaintance with books was extensive. There were few sub- 
jects, even outside of his profession, with which he was most 
surprisingly familiar. In theology, and the history of religious 
opinions, he was well read. The degree of Doctor of Divinity, 
conferred by Columbian College, District of Columbia, though 
little prized by him, was richly merited. He retained, beyond 
what is common among our working ministers, his knowledge 
of the ancient classics, and a marked fondness for their beauties. 
Indeed, his tastes were quite scholarly, and had his mode of 
life been more settled and regular, and his health more favora- 
ble to the pursuit, he would.'doubtless have acquired distinction 
as a man of profound and varied learning. Under proper in- 
fluences, he would have made a Biblical critic and commentator 
of rare excellence. His thorough common sense and solid judg- 
ment, along with the spiritual insight and intuition of his deep 
piety, would have constituted him a theological teacher of the 



460 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

style. of the "judicious Hooker," and the yet more judicious 
Andrew Fuller. 

Of the gifts and graces of Dr. Mallary, we have pleasing me- 
morials in his various printed works. He figured in his day 
more than most of our leading ministers as a writer and au- 
thor. He entertained an exalted appreciation of the power of 
the press, and from no mere scribbling propensity, no weak 
ambition to see himself in print, but from a solemn conviction 
of duty he wrote much. He was master of a facile pen, and of 
a style characterized by numerous excellencies. It was always 
correct, smooth and animated, often ornate and eloquent. His 
leading productions are the "Life of Eotsford," "Memoir of 
Mercer," "Soul-Prosperity," "Sanctification," "Sabbath-School 
Instruction," " Simple Khym.es for Children," " The Alphabeti- 
cal Dinner." " Prince Alcohol," an allegory in the style of Bun- 
yan, and almost worthy of the immortal dreamer himself, was 
published many years since by the American Tract Society and 
obtained an immense circulation. The poetical talent of Dr. 
Mallary was remarkable, and, if thoroughly cultivated, might 
have achieved for him distinction in this department of litera- 
ture. A little before his death he completed a didactic poem 
which had occupied his leisure hours for many years. It is en- 
titled " Lord's Day Musings," written in blank verse, and ex- 
tending through seven books. His contributions to the " Chris- 
tian Index," on a great Variety of subjects, always arrested at- 
tention and repaid perusal. His chief fault as a writer con- 
sisted, probably, in a certain diffuseness of style and a lack of 
that sententious brevity or terseness which keeps the mind 
alert and expectant. In the too limited authorship which 
characterizes the Baptist ministry of Georgia and of the South, 
he occupies a foremost place. All that he ever published was 
like himself, pure, and good, and kind. 

"He never wrote 
A line which, dying, he could wish to blot." 

But, after all, it was probably in the pulpit that Charles D. 
Mallary gave the highest exhibition of the rare and various gifts 
with which he was endowed. First for his goodness, his holiness, 
and next for his power as a preacher, is he likely to be longest 



Charles D. Mallary, D. D. 461 

and most widely remembered. In his generation, among the 
Baptist ministers of Georgia he had few equals and no superior. 
The pulpit was the throne where he seemed most at home, in 
the fullest command of all his powers, and the most perfect dis- 
play of all his sacred passions. He was emphatically an able 
preacher, replete with rich thought, mighty in the scriptures, 
lucid and happy in the method of his discussions, and powerful 
in the arguments with which he defended and enforced his po- 
sitions. He loved what are called the " doctrines of grace," 
and often presented them as pulpit themes with masterly 
strength and consummate skill. He was a truly eloquent 
preacher, gifted with a rare command of appropriate, energetic 
and beautiful language in which to clothe his sublime concep- 
tions. His occasional hesitation for a word, perhaps, rather 
heightened than impaired the effect of his preaching, since that 
hesitation was almost sure to terminate, not in a lame and im- 
potent escape from the difficulty, but in a new and bolder out- 
burst of impassioned thought. His imagination was one of the 
most striking of his intellectual endowments, and, when fired 
in the discussion of divine truth, it often bore him to the high- 
est heaven of invention, sweeping his hearers along with him 
" beyond the flaming bounds of space and time," up to 

" The throne of God, the sapphire blaze, 
Where angels tremble as they gaze." 

He was an exceedingly ingenious preacher, not in the sense of 
being able to excite attention by the petty conceits, smart sur- 
prises and startling paradoxes of sensation sermonizers, but as 
conveying truth, like the great Teacher, by similes, parables 
and happy illustrations. It was this peculiarity which gave 
him in large measure his enviable distinction as a preacher for 
negroes and children. His preaching was strongly marked by 
that indescribable excellence denominated unction, the blending 
of sincerity, earnestness and tenderness. He impressed all 
hearers with the conviction that he believed what he spoke and 
felt what he believed. In the pulpit he betrayed little self- 
consciousness and no vanity. He seemed conscious only of his 
Master's presence and claims. He kept himself behind the 
cross and lost himself in the theme. He showed his greatness 



462 Georgia Baptists — Biographical 

as a preacher by being nearly always equal to great occasions, 
although in his esteem there were no small occasions. At as- 
sociational meetings, with an audience of thousands gathered 
in the grand temple of nature, his powers acquired their freest 
play, his feeble form dilated and became instinct with strange 
vigor, his long arms swung about him with Titanic energy, and 
his voice, in tones of organ-thunder, poured out the sublime 
thoughts and emotions with which he almost seemed inspired. 
Many of his sermons were very memorable and produced im- 
pressions which will long live in tradition. He never affected 
the arts of the orator, though he naturally adopted many of 
the best rules of the rhetorician and elocutionist. He spoke 
right on as his heart prompted, careless of gesture, intonations 
and all the niceties of style and manner. Indeed, it was unfor- 
tunate that he did not pay more attention to these minor mat- 
ters. Had he cultivated and disciplined his naturally fine 
voice, and pruned away certain little infelicities of manner, 
and kept his pulpit forces more compactly together and more 
thoroughly in hand, his preaching would have gained consider- 
ably in its unrform impression. In his sermons, as in his 
writings, a certain diffuseness of style and a negligence of mi- 
nute graces, together with a prolix tendency and a disposition 
to multiply divisions where differences were not sufficiently 
broad, constituted his most serious faults. But on the whole, 
while not a perfect pulpit model for imitation — as no minister 
is or should be regarded — he was a preacher of such compass 
and force, such fidelity and affection, such stately eloquence 
and childlike simplicity as is rarely vouchsafed to the church 
of Christ. 

It is natural to think of Mallary as a preacher in connection 
with the ministerial associates of his life. Of course it would 
be improper to compare him with any of those brethren still 
Living with whom he delighted to labor, and it is a delicate 
task to institute a comparison between him and any of those 
companions who are now sharing with him the heavenly rest. 
There is one name, however, which involunturily starts up at 
the mention of Mallary, as if united with it. We mean, of 
course, Daioson. This noble pair of brethren lived out their 
days in mutual esteem and love. They preached much to- 



Charles D. Mallary, D. D. 463 

gether, they were singularly as one in their views of most sub- 
jects, and they co-operated heartily in promoting the same 
great objects. In the pulpit they were somewhat alike, and 
yet they were different. • Dawson was more graceful, Mallary 
was more profound ; Dawson was more impassioned, Mallary was 
more thoughtful. Perhaps Dawson had more genius; Mallary 
had more discipline and culture; Dawson was more moving; 
Mallary was more convincing ; Dawson understood the nice 
cords of human nature something better, and how to strike 
them; Mallary was more, thoroughly acquainted with great 
truths in their relations and harmony ; Dawson's preaching 
was more popular and immediately effective; Mallary 's was 
better adapted to be put in print and read at the fireside. It 
is instructive to reflect how little the settlement of the ques- 
tion, " Who was the greater preacher?" concerns them as they 
mingle in those associations where all the disputes and ambi- 
tions and rivalries of earth seem so mean. 

Few men of his generation have been equally active and use- 
ful with, Dr. Mallary in promoting those great enterprises of 
benevolence which form so marked a characteristic of our age. 
He was an early, zealous and persevering advocate of the tem- 
perance cause. The claims of ministerial and general educa- 
tion found in him a devoted and self-sacrificing friend and 
champion. Sabbath-school instruction enlisted his warmest sym- 
pathy, and evoked some of the best productions of his tongue 
and pen. The missionary work, whether foreign or domestic, 
had not, perhaps, in the State of Georgia, another such toiling, 
believing, praying friend. His was eminently a missionary 
sj^irit. He was emphatically a working christian, combining, 
in an extraordinary degree, 'the active and contemplative ele- 
ments of religious character. No danger that he would rust 
out. As a useful man, who faithfully served his generation, he 
had in his day few equals. Even should his name be forgot- 
ten, his influence will live in the endless succession of gracious 
causes and effects, striking onward and downward " to the last 
syllable of recorded time." 

It has been said of some eminent man, that nothing in his 
life so little became him as his manner of leaving it. It was 
not so with Mallary. His death was perfectly congruous- with 



464 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

his life— just such as could have been desired, and would have 
been expected. Without extraordinary pangs of physical suf- 
fering, in full possession of all his mental faculties, soothed by 
the affectionate ministries of his children, he sank to his rest 
as gently as a wave dies along the shore when the storm has 
ceased. In the language of the finest epitaph of pagan an- 
tiquity, " his death was the close of a beautiful day." At the 
earnest solicitation of his friends, he had repaired to Magnolia 
springs, Sumter county, Georgia, several weeks previous to his 
death. As his end drew near, he lay completely passive in the 
divine hands. He said, "I am afraid to live, but not afraid to 
die;" and yet he was resigned to remain or depart. All day 
long, and most of the night, he discoursed concerning the 
Saviour and that heaven which was so near. At times he be- 
came so intensely interested in these glorious themes, that he 
would raise himself and sit erect in bed — a thing which ordi 
narily he was unable to do without assistance — and deliver 
exhortations so solemn and touching as to melt the most callous 
of his attendants to tears. When admonished that such exer- 
tions would injure him, he replied, " It does not harm me to talk 
of Jesus." He spoke much of his old friends, living and dead, 
alluding particularly to Mercer, Sanders, Dawson and others 
who had gone before and with whom he expected soon to 
renew his intercourse. He thanked God for his sufferings, as 
well as for his ease ; and when asked, "Are you suffering much?' 
replied, " Yes, some, but Jesus is in the room ; the room is full of 
ministering spirits!" His last words were, "Sweet " (clapping 
his hands,) " Home ! " 

His end was not so much a death as a transition and trans- 
figuration — not s'o much an unclothing, as a being clothed upon 
with the shining vestments of immortality. In contemplating 
such a termination of life as this, such a perfect euthanasy, we 
may well exclaim : 

Is there a deathbed, where a christian lies? 
Yes, but not his : 't is death himself that dies. 

This brief review of the life and labors of this great and 
good man would be incomplete and unsatisfactory to his friends, 
and unjust to his character and memory, if no notice were 



Charles D. Mallary, D. D. 465 

taken of the position he occupied in regard to the great strug- 
gle for Southern independence, which was going on during the 
last four years of his life, and was still undecided at the time 
of his death. "The lost cause" was, of all earthly concerns, 
the nearest and dearest to his heart. Though he never took 
any part in politics — having rarely voted during a period of 
forty years — yet few men better understood the structure and 
history of the government, and no man was more devotedly 
attached to the Constitution and the Union. He watched with 
intense interest the great political movements which, from 
time to time, agitated the country, and mourned over the folly 
and fanaticism of the people and rulers. For some years pre- 
vious to the war, he indulged the hope that our sectional diffi- 
culties might be settled, and that a terrible struggle might be 
averted. Eut soon after the "John Brown Eaid " in Virginia, he 
went on a visit to his friends and relatives in his native State, 
(Vermont, ) and was convinced from what he saw and heard 
that war was inevitable. In a letter to his oldest son he says : 
"I have no hope of the country. Nothing but the power of a 
merciful God can save us from war and ruin. I fear that in his 
wrath he will punish the wickedness of the people. The North 
seems blind to its own interests, and determined to destroy us. 
The Constitution is no longer respected, and the higher law doc- 
trine is embraced by all classes. Infidelity is on the increase, 
and religion in all the churches is sadly declining." His views 
of the condition of affairs remained unchanged, and after his 
return to his home he expressed the opinion that the union of 
the States would be severed, and separate governments estab- 
lished, or that a great military government would succeed, in 
which the South would be powerless. 

When the secession of the Southern States took place and. 
they declared their independence, he approved most heartily 
of their action and sanctioned it by his vote. Though doubtful 
of our success, he never doubted the justice of our cause. After 
the conflict of arms began, his heart and soul was in it. In 
addition to the morning and evening family devotions, he spent 
half an hour of every afternoon in prayer for the Confederacy. 
Not only did he pray for the cause, but he contributed liberally 
of his means towards its support, believing that the principles 
30 



466 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

of both civil and religious liberty were involved in the issue. 
Of African slavery, as it existed in the South, he was a zealous 
advocate, firmly believing it was sanctioned by divine authority. 
He looked upon it as the means appointed by providence for 
the civilization and evangelization of the African race. The 
violation of the provisions of the Constitution he considered a 
great sin; but the violation of God's providence by the aboli- 
tion of slavery, he considered a greater sin. He expressed the 
opinion that abolition would result in the extermination of the 
negro race in America. In the last days of his life, his inter- 
est in the great cause seemed to increase. He heard that At- 
lanta had fallen : " Who knows, said he, but what I may be 
captured before I am called away?" And when asked how he 
would feel about it, answered, " Well, I will say to them, I am 
a poor old rebel — do with me as you like." 



JAMES F. SWANSOK 

The subject of this sketch was born in Morgan county, Geor- 
gia, January 27th, 1825 j was " born again " in the town of Mad- 
ison, in the same county, in the fall of 1848 ; and still had an- 
other birth into the heavenly world, departing this life on the 
28th of October, 1869, near Cedar Town, Polk county, Georgia. 

A short review -of his life and character may bring honor to 
the grace of God, which was so signally manifested in him. 
X/et us view him 

IN THE WORLD. 

He was born as would be said of a good family. He would 
.have said, 

" But higher far my fond pretensions rise, 
The son of parents passed into the skies." 

Nothing special is noted of his boyhood, beyond the fact that 
it displayed the manliness, modesty, generosity and thrift which 
characterized him when grown. When about twenty years of 
age, he left the parental roof, and out on the journey of life 
held his anxious way. Belying upon his own resources, he en- 
tered the town of Madison. In 1848, after several years of 
excessive toil, he raised himself to a partnership in a prosperous 



James F. Sioanson. 467 

mercantile business, which was conducted for eight years under 
the firm name of Fears & Swanson. His failing health com- 
pelled its abandonment. By his request, that firm was never, 
by "public advertisement," legally dissolved. Death only dis- 
solved the unions which. he decreed. Subsequently, he was en- 
gaged in teaching. In the later years of his life, when his^ 
physical infirmities demanded, his time was partly employed in 
the cultivation of land, in teaching, and as agent for an incor- ' 
porated society. In all these dealings with men, he impressed 
them with his scrupulous honesty, his unswerving fidelity, his 
high-toned candor, and his practical good sense. His partner 
says of him : " He never, in all his life, was known, in his busi- 
ness contracts, to give an undue coloring to his side." Accord- 
ingly, the deepest affection or respect of his pupils or patrons, 
his employers and employees, his associates and his neighbors, 
was constantly excited towards him. 

IN THE CHURCH. 

In the fall of 1848, during the first year of the pastorate at 
Madison of Eev. C. M. Irwin, a gracious revival of religion oc- 
curred, and brother Swanson was led into the faith and obedi- 
ence of Christ. He was baptized in October of that year. 

With the heartiness and promptitude of an earnest man, he 
entered upon his duties as a christian. His voice was consecra- 
ted in song, in prayer, in exhortation, in instruction, and in con- 
versation. Many remember the influence sent out from the 
choir, of which he was the leader, and from the Sabbath-school, 
of which he was successively teacher and superintendent. The 
true, pure fragrance, even of this germinal period of his life, 
was hallowed to the benefit of old and young, of white and 
black. He never lost sight of the necessities of his own soul, 
though immersed in the most anxious labors for others. Yery 
well known and appreciated was the truth : to do good to others, 
we must first be good. He felt that wherever he was directed 
to set his foot, God gave him the land. Every movement re- 
vealed his deep sense of personal responsibility to the truth as 
it is in Jesus, and to all with whom he came in contact; and 
hence, he approached men with greater success through pri- 
vate or personal, than through public or professional channels. 



468 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

What a revenue of strength does character bring ! Bacon says, 
" Knowledge is power;" but, in a truer sense, Character is power. 

IN THE FAMILY. 

In December, 1854, he was married t© Miss A. C. Stone, a 
highly accomplished christian woman, who conferred on him 
the heritage of great happiness. This union was never marred 
by a misunderstanding, never chilled by neglect, never threat- 
ened by a collision. No union could be more pure, more con- 
genial or more productive of spirituality and usefulness. No 
children blessed it, but he was to her husband, brother, lover; 
she was to him wife, sister, -comforter. Each was the comple- 
ment of the other. Called into the fellowship of protracted 
suffering, while death ever and anon flapped, his dark wings 
over the couch — now of one, now of the other; — they were al- 
ternately watching, nursing, strengthening each other. And 
yet there was a painful interim when others were appointed to 
do these things. How sore the trial of their faith, how deep 
the anguish of their hearts when, the wife having been carried 
to New York for her health, they were separated, through un- 
avoidable circumstances, from December, 1860, till the summer 
of 1865 ! 

During most of this time, we find him in the family of brother 
Marcus H. Bunn, near Cedar Town. In the family is fur- 
nished the test and the quality of a man's religion. His true 
character is revealed at home. As the Lord blessed the house 
of Obed-Edom because of the ark of God ; as Potiphar and Pha- 
raoh were prospered because of Joseph, so brother Bunn's fam- 
ily was blessed because of brother Swanson. In the language 
of Laban to Jacob, brother Bunn could say to brother Swanson, 
1; I have learned by experience that the Lord .hath blessed me 
for thy sake." For months and years he moved before them, 
a sacred incarnation of the power of grace. Every one of 
brother Bunn's children was lead to Christ. Dear ones, how 
he loved you ! How you loved him ! On the shining shore he 
i* singing Jesus just as he did around your hearthstone — sing- 
ing, while he is waiting for you. 



James F. Swanson. 469 

IN THE MINISTRY. 

Many Southern men have been led into the ministry through 
their labors for the colored people. Many preachers, ordained 
by no ecclesiastical court, but anointed from on high, did for 
years, and do now, break to these the bread of life. E^ery 
agency which the genius of Christianity anywhere recognizes 
or employs in the elevation of the menial class, was subsidized 
in the proclamation of the gospel to that race; and where the 
statistics of labor can be collected and calmly compared, there 
will be found as great — in some instances greater — success here 
as in other localities. Previous to the war, while preaching ex- 
clusively to this class, one of the most distinguished theologians 
received his doctorate, and a lawyer of the highest culture, in 
the midst of an onerous practice, found his chief delight. The 
writer's first impressions to preach were produced in this way. 

Very early after his conversion, brother Swanson began work 
for the salvation of the negroes, and continued it with so great 
ardor that an unquenchable desire to preach the gospel to all 
men was developed. His brethren, confirming the conviction 
of his heart, suggested that he identify himself with the full 
work of the ministry. He was accordingly ordained on the 
13th of March, 1859, at Madison. Brethren H. H. Tucker, A. 
T. Spalding, N. G. Foster and George Y. Browne constituted the 
presbytery. While teaching at this place, in the Georgia Fe- 
male College, he preached to country churches and in destitute 
neighborhoods. During a visit to the North in the spring of 
1860, he received and declined a call to the pastorate of two 
churches near the city of New York. He next supplied the 
Second Baptist church in Augusta, Georgia, for twelve months, 
preaching frequently to the First church. A long and severe 
illness compelling him to decline the charge of the Second 
church, he settled, with a view of securing health, in north- 
western Georgia, near Cedar Town. In March, 1862, he became 



rim 



53 



pastor of the church in that place, and the one in Cave Sp 
giving two Sabbaths a month to each. In January, 1863, he 
resigned the Cave Spring church, because the tax was too great 
upon his constitution. He remained pastor at Cedar Town till 
the close of 1865. 



470 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

I. AS A PREACHER. 

If required to give, concisely, an accurate description of our 
brother, Cowper supplying the words, 

" I would express him simple, grave, sincere; 
In doctrine incorrupt : in language plain, 
And plain in manner, decent, solemn, chaste, 
And natural in gesture ; much impressed 
Himself, as conscious of his awful charge, 
And anxious mainly that the flock he feeds 
May feel it too ; affectionate in look, 
And tender in address, as well becomes 
A messenger of grace to guilty men." 

The essential qualification of every minister of Jesus is piety. 
How can a man utter spiritual truths effectively unless he real- 
izes them in his own experience? Xo one doubted the regen- 
eration of brother Swanson. Xone failed to discover in him a 
heart-whole consecration to Jesus. True character and sound 
theology are not only evoked by prayer, but are revealed in it. 
Who that listened frequently to his devotions was not con- 
vinced that his presence was a power, and was felt, and then 
his countenance was elevating, inspiring, consoling. The fea- 
tures displayed in his ministry were piety, benevolence, pru- 
dence, firmness, common sense, and crucifixion of self and the 
world. Few had so vigorous faith, few such wealth of practical 
holiness. His faith, not his works, brought this to him. He 
loved the doctrines of grace, the dear Pauline faith, unfolded 
more particularly in Romans and Galatians. He was unusually 
clear in the statement of his propositions, and they were forti- 
fied by sound, judicious argument. He had a great aversion to 
clap-trap, no relish for sensation, for novelty, for eccentricity, 
but a genuine regard for tender, earnest, true emotion. His 
style was plain, but strong; his delivery full of solemnity and 
unction ; his manner quiet and self-possessed — his great soul 
bounding through all. 

He was eminently catholic and evangelical. In his inter- 
course with others, he never offensively thrust his opinions for- 
ward. He loved doctrine, but not because held by a sect. He 
was no dogmatist, no partisan. Xo social, denominational or 
geographical bands girded the affinities of his soul. So truly 
honest, he would not rashly assail the tenets of sincere chris- 



James F. Swanson. 471 

tians, nor offer to others what his own faith had not appropria- 
ted, nor urge to a course of conduct which his own life had not 
illustrated. 

II. AS A PASTOR. 

Though his labors as a pastor were brief and frequently in- 
termitted, they were very useful. He felt that his ministry 
had been especially blessed to Christians, notwithstanding 
there may not have been many conversions. But, in truth, we 
know very little about results at present. The love, and not 
the reward, of the work was his stimulus to action. 

In the pastorate, his influence was widespread and abiding. 
He moved from house to house as a godly man, warmly wel- 
comed, greatly beloved, and gladly leaving his benediction upon 
all." Such benedictions were never drudgery to him, who 
looked upon them as a part of his service to Christ. It is im- 
possible to calculate their influence. 

In matters of discipline, he was firm and faithful, candid and 
loving, rigid, yet not vapid. Nothing was allowed to barricade 
his path of duty. He loved a small but pure church with more 
fervor than a large worldly one. 

Many tears will fall on the cheeks of dear saints of God as 
they recall his cheerful face, his practical talks, his unctious 
prayers and his timely advice, all combined in hours of mel- 
lowed communion. How gentle, how appropriate, how satis- 
fying was the warmth of his faith, the depth of his sympathy, 
the counsel of his heart. A successor in the pastoral office says : 
" He was a model christian and a model preacher." The worthy 
treasurer of the Georgia Baptist Convention says : " In the 
course of my religious life of thirty-six years, I have known 
but few christians more devoted and consistent than brother 
Swanson." 

IN THE RIVER OF DEATH. 

For years he suffered with a pulmonary affection, often 
brought to the very brink of the grave, yet ever calm, ever 
trusting. When weak and languid because of hemorrhage 
from his lungs, he lay on his bed, half on earth, half in heaven, 
while beloved christians gathered around, how eloquent, how 
direct, how real was his preaching! With what patience he 



472 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

yielded to his heavenly Father's treatment. How submission 
gilded the crown of faith ! Into his room the smallest child 
would glide with confidence, and, greeted by his smile, would 
honor him with the gift of sweet flowers, as symbolic of his 
spirit. Into that room — during the war it was an " upper 
room " — it is remembered well, so well, how often have loved 
ones gathered and voiced in melting music the sustained har- 
monies of his own soul ! Oh, the pathos, the power of a scene 
like that ! 

In July, 1869, he had a severe illness, from which he never 
fully recovered, though by September he was able to take ex- 
ercise, to sit up most of the day, and to visit some. " But be- 
fore he had gained much strength, he was attacked with in- 
flammation of the glands of the throat, terminating in a series 
of abcesses, which drained his life away and made him a prey 
to many ills. He had a cough, too, which troubled his rest at 
night." During this time his usual cheerfulness blossomed in 
rich fullness. 

" On Saturday morning, October 23d, he had a slight hem- 
orrhage, but felt it a great relief, and all day was very happy, 
saying afterwards that it was one of the happiest days of his 
life." There were slight attacks of the same on that and the 
next night, but he was comparatively comfortable until Wed- 
nesday, when, having lain all the morning weak and still, he felt 
his purse and said to his wife, "If this prostration is not the 
effect of an anodyne, I am very near to death." This was their 
first premonition. 

"After a sinking spell in the afternoon, his physician and 
friends were sent for, only to find that a severe pneumonia was 
upon him." All that night his frail, patient, loving wife sat by 
him to help him, to refresh him, to comfort him, and to pray 
for him. 

During Thursday, October 2%th, he frequently said, " It is all 
light — right and wise. My Father knows what is best, and his 
will be done ! Through Jesus I have the victory, even in his 
righteousness. Not in myself, but in him is all my hope." 
Again: "I leave it all with him. Lord Jesus, receive my 
spirit." " I have not one pain too many." " If I have no ec- 
stacies, I have great peace." Late in the afternoon of that day 



John E. Dawson, D. D. 473 

some friends fulfilled the idea of Addison, as he said, " Come, 
see a christian die." He welcomed them, and said presently, 
'• Open the door V and that instant the angels opened the door of 
paradise, and calmly, trustfully, peacefully he went over the 
tide to dwell " In the christian's home in glory ! * * * 
.By the banks of the Coosa, in the beautiful cemetery on the 
hill that overlooks the city of Rome, Georgia, his body sleeps. 
His soul, whose triumph is a legacy to believers, a witness to 
infidels, and a joy to angels, is 'hid with Christ in G-od.' " 

Thus much by brother Gwin. The author knew " Frank 
Swanson," as he was familiarly called, from his early childhood. 
His parents were excellent persons, his father (John Swanson,) 
having been for many years a deacon of Antioch church, Mor- 
gan county, when it was one of the most flourishing churches 
in Georgia. His mother was a most exemplary christian, and 
several of his brothers and sisters were devoted followers of 
the Lamb. 



JOHN E. DAWSON, D. D. 

As a deeply interesting memoir of this distinguished man, 
b} r his sister, Mrs. A. P. Hill, is now before the public, it is 
deemed necessary to give, in this work, only the following 
brief outline of his character and services, referring those who 
may not have read it, to that excellent memoir, and recom- 
mending them to obtain it without delay. 

John Edmonds Dawson was born in Washington county, 
Georgia, March 7th, 1805, and was the second son of Major 
John E. Dawson, an intelligent and wealthy farmer, who moved 
from Virginia to Georgia early in the present century, and 
from Washington to Morgan county, where the subject of this 
sketch was brought up. For several years he attended school 
in Madison, under the instruction of Major Alden, who speaks 
of him as a youth of noble mien and fine intellect. He subse- 
quently attended school at Mt. Zion, Hancock county, under' 
the celebrated Dr. Beman, where it is thought he did not re- 
main very long. His educational attainments seem to have 
been only such as could be acquired in the academies and high 
schools of the times. Even at this early age, he was distin- 



474 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

guished above his fellows for his powers of oratory, in which he 
so greatly excelled in maturcr years. If ever man was born an 
orator, John E. Dawson was that man. 

At the early age of nineteen he was married to the only 
daughter of Mr. John Walker, a wealthy planter of Morgan 
county, and settled on a farm adjoining that of his father-in- 
law, between whose family and Mr. Dawson there ever existed 
the kindliest relations. 

Though not strictly moral in early life, he was ever the soul 
of honor; the very impersonation of integrity. In less than 
two years subsequent to his marriage, and early in the great 
revival of 1827, he became a hopeful subject of divine grace. 
At an Association at Antioch church, Morgan county, (men- 
tioned elsewhere in this work) under a sermon by Rev. A. Sher- 
wood, he gave the first public manifestation of interest on the 
subject of religion, and, before the meeting closed, he obtained 
hope in Christ. He and his wife were baptized at Indian creek 
church, Morgan county, by .Rev. Edmund Shackleford, Septem- 
ber 22d, 1827. He at once became an active and efficient 
church-member, a leader in conference and prayer-meetings ; 
but did not commence preaching till the summer of 1834. His 
first sermon was delivered at Monroe, Walton county, during 
a memorable revival, in which about eighty were baptized. He 
was ordained to the ministry at Indian creek church, January 
14th, 1835. by a presbj^tery consisting of Malcolm Johnson, V. 
E. Thornton and A. Sherwood. 

There was one fact connected with his earlier efforts at 
preaching, which should be mentioned. Sometimes, after hav- 
ing taken his text, and proceeded fifteen or twenty minutes, he 
would lose all confidence, and fail or break down. He would 
generally have a presentiment of such a result, and, on differ- 
ent occasions, he pressed the writer into the pulpit with him, 
that he might finish out the work in which he apprehended 
failure. On such occasions, he would seem to his hearers to be 
progressing with ease and pleasure, when he would pause, as if 
bewildered, and would suddenly take his seat. Ordin-ary men 
do not have such experiences. But John E. Dawson was far 
from being an ordinary man. 

He entered upon his first pastorate at Eatonton, which com- 



John U. Dawson, D. D. 475 

menced in the early part of 1835, in which church a great re- 
vival was experienced in the course of the year. During the 
same year revivals were also experienced at MiUedgeville, Mc- 
Donough, Sharon and other places, and Dawson participated 
in them all. 

He continued in Eatonton only one year, and was called 
thence to Columbus, where he commenced his labors in Jan- 
uary, 1836, which were soon interrupted, and finally broken up 
by the war with the Creek Indians (in the territory in Ala- 
bama adjoining Columbus) which broke out that year. Hav- 
ing returned to Middle Georgia, his labors, for several years, 
were given to Madison, Monticello, Forsyth, etc., till in 1842, 
he removed to LaG-range, Troup county, where he became pas- 
tor of the church and principal of a female academy. This 
double service was rendered necessary on account of his having 
a large family to support and the heavy pecuniary losses he 
had of late years sustained. His whole heart, however, was in 
the ministry ; so that the school-room was irksome to him. In 
1843, through the agency of the writer, his school property 
was sold to Mr. Milton E. Bacon, and he was once more fully 
devoted to the work of the ministry. 

From this time forward till laid aside by disease, induced by 
excessive labor, all his great powers were devoted to preaching 
"Christ and Him crucified." It is safe to affirm that, in those 
days, as a popular pulpit orator, he had no peer in the denomi- 
nation in the State, nor perhaps in any other denomination. 
On all occasions, where thousands assembled to hear the Word, 
the most prominent positions were assigned him, and he almost 
invariably met the expectations of the public. Sometimes he 
failed; and when he did so, it was an utter failure. He was no 
half-way man in anything. He was John E. Dawson, and no 
one else. God had given him such a commanding person as 
few men possessed; a voice soft and musical, yet of great com- 
pass and power; and a manner and magnetism that captivated 
and attracted all who came within their influence. His grasp 
of mind was that of a giant ; his flow of language like the rush 
of a cataract. There was eloquence in the flash of his eye, in 
the movements of his body, in the nervous motions of his arms. 
Who that ever heard him will forget the power there was in 



476 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

that left hand f But I forbear. Eloquence may be felt, but can- 
not be described. The writer recalls instances in which he has 
seen large audiences more entirely under his control than he 
has ever witnessed in the case of any other public speaker. 

After laboring in LaGrange five years, he was again called 
to Columbus. He would not accept till he had prevailed on 
Eev. C. D. Mallary to take his place. In the early part of 
1848 we find him again at Columbus, where he continued the 
idolized pastor till 1856, having in the meantime spent several 
months in New Orleans, where his ministrations attracted 
much attention. His 'resignation at Columbus was forced upon 
him by long-continued affliction, the result, as has been already 
said, of excessive labor. When he could no longer preach, he 
aceepted the position of associate editor with Dr. Henderson, 
of the South- Western Baptist, Alabama. He lingered a few 
months, when consumption terminated his earthly career, at 
Tuskegee, in the fifty-sixth year of his age. His remains are 
interred at Columbus, G-eorgia. 

The reader is again recommended to obtain the " Life of 
John E. Dawson," by Mrs. Hill. 

ADAM T. HOLMES, D. D. 

This gifted minister was born in Sunbury, Liberty county, 
Georgia, about the year 1803. His father was Mr. James 
Holmes, a wealthy and leading citizen of that county. His 
mother's maiden name was Kell, an aunt of the distinguished 
Lieutenant Kell, of the Confederate Navy, an officer of the Ala- 
bama. His brothers were not unknown to fame — Dr. James 
Holmes, of Darien, and Captain Isaac Holmes, of Macon, who 
died in Mexico. His two sisters were ladies of culture and re- 
finement. His mother was one of the most devout and godly 
women the writer has ever known. 

Mr. Holmes enjoyed the best educational advantages the 
country afforded. For a time he was a student at Yale Col- 
lege, Connecticut. Whether he graduated or not, the. writer is 
not informed. He was, however, an excellent scholar, a highly 
gifted writer and a fluent and forcible speaker. His early years 
were spent in sin and folly, and it was not until he was about 



Adam T. Holmes, JD. D. 477 

twenty years of age that divine grace arrested his course. He 
was one of the first subjects of the great revival which was ex- 
perienced on the coast of Georgia and South Carolina in 1822, 
and was baptized at Sunbury, in November of that year, by 
Eev. Charles 0. Screven. For two or three years he ran well, 
was put forward by his brethren in exhortation and prayer, 
and promised great usefulness. But, from various causes, he 
got into a cold and backslidden state, and for a time was a 
wanderer from the fold of Christ. It is with pain the author 
records this fact in his friend's history, and it is with pleasure 
he adds that his restoration to the church was cordial and per- 
manent. 

It was not long after his restoration that he embarked fully 
in the work of the gospel ministry, in which he was a faithful 
laborer the balance of his life, embracing a period of about forty 
years. He left the coast and was engaged in teaching school 
for a time in Forsyth, Monroe county. For two or three years 
he was pastor of the church in Macon, whence he removed to 
Houston county. For the balance of his history, the author 
acknowledges himself indebted to the gifted pen of Rev. H. C. 
Hornady. In a notice of Dr. Holmes, which appeared in the 
"Christian Index " soon after his death, (which occurred in 
Atlanta, September 29th, 1870,) Mr. Hornady says : 

" On the 4th day of July, 1839, the writer, then a boy, was 
present at Pine Level Academy, at that time under the super- 
intendence of Rev. Peter Mclntyre, when and where we heard, 
for the first time, a public ^address from Rev. Adam Tunno 
Holmes. He was then in the full vigor of his mature man- 
hood, and presented a personal appearance equaled by few and 
surpassed by none of his compeers. The address was delivered 
on the subject of the ' Temperance Reformation,' and it was so 
replete with matured and vigorous thought, that it was subse- 
quently published by request of the large and intelligent audi- 
ence then present, and there are doubtless copies of it still in 
print. A little previous, the subject of this notice had been 
married to Mrs. Nelson, a lady of fine culture, from the State 
of South Carolina. She was a member of the Hampton family, 
than whom none have a brighter record in that once proud 



478 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

State ; but, as she still survives, further mention in this con- 
nection may not be entirely appropriate. 

" It was about this period that brother Holmes was called to 
the pastoral care of two of the most important .churches in 
Houston county, viz: Perry and Hayneville, which he served 
with characteristic ability until 1851, when he was elected to 
the presidency of the Baptist Female College at Cuthbert, to 
which place he removed and entered upon a new career of use- 
fulness. 

"During the autumn of 184G, while the writer was a student 
at the Academy at Hayneville, the Eehoboth Association held 
its session with the Baptist church at that place, and as there 
was an unusual amount of religious interest manifested by the 
people, the meeting was protracted for a number of days. In 
attendance upon the meeting of the Association were C. D. 
Mallaiy, C. F. Sturgis, J. E. Ken*drick, Jacob King and Hiram 
Powell. On Monday, Eev. J. H. Campbell reached the place 
from Eichland, in Twiggs county, where he had just closed a 
revival meeting of great interest. The writer was then in his 
minority, and went to the meeting with mingled feelings of 
curiosity and respect for the talented preacher, and on reach- 
ing the place found the church filled with a congregation which 
appeared unusually serious and attentive. The text of Mr. 
Campbell was taken in I. Peter, iv. 18 : 'And if the righteous 
scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner ap- 
pear ?' During the delivery of the sermon many poor sinners 
' were cut to the heart,' and it was there, while under deep 
conviction for sin, that the writer was brought into intimate 
relations with Eev. A. T. Holmes, in whom he found a spiritual 
adviser every way qualified to guide his untutored mind to 
Christ, the friend of sinners ; and if it is given to the departed 
to know what is occurring on earth, then the spirit of our de- 
parted brother understands what are the feelings of his humble 
biographer, and can appreciate the gratitude of one who now 
trusts for salvation in the merits of Jesus Christ alone. 

" The writer was baptized by brother Holmes, and for five 
years enjoyed his pastoral labors and spiritual counsels : and 
when he was ordained to the gospel ministry, his beloved 
brother was present and preached the sermon on that occasion. 



Adam T. Holmes, B. D. . 479 

An acquaintance was thus formed that ripened into a close and 
cordial friendship, which, by the grace of God, continued un- 
broken until the sacred tie was rudely severed by the icy hand 
of the great image-breaker. For these and similar reasons, the 
lamented one urged, as his dying request, that his religious 
pupil should write the words of affectionate remembrance which 
might enshrine his name, as it should meet the tearful eyes of 
his fellow-laborers who still linger on these mortal shores ; or 
as it is handed down, a priceless legacy, to coming generations. 
In sketching the life and character of the deceased, those who 
have ever known the power of loving religious fellowship will 
make due allowance for any apparent exaggeration in the por- 
traiture. 

"Adam T. Holmes was an honest man, and, whatever weak- 
ness of our common nature he may have betrayed in other di- 
rections, no temptation was sufficient to draw him from the 
path of rectitude and moral integrity. He was possessed of a 
high degree of courage, both moral and physical, and was never, 
therefore, in 'the fear of man, which bringeth a snare;' nor 
was he ever found employing the arts of dissimulation in order 
to hide his defects, or to escape the responsibility of a position. 
His bold, fearless and candid nature qualified him, in an eminent 
degree, to set forth and defend the doctrines and practices which 
have always been distinguishing features of our denomination ; 
and he never appeared to better advantage than when, sur- 
rounded by those who held different views, he showed from the 
scriptures the firm foundations upon which rested his faith and 
that of his brethren. Upon what are usually called the doc- 
trines of grace, his teaching was remarkably clear and forcible ; 
and never, perhaps, since the days of Andrew Fuller, have the 
churches of any pastor been better instructed in the Calvinistic 
view of theology than those which were blessed with the labors 
of our brother whom these pages commemorate. His mem- 
bers, for solid piety and active usefulness, had no superiors, as 
all can testify who were acquainted with Hugh Lawson, one of 
the deacons of Hayneville, and Samuel Felder and Bar- 
rett, who sustained the same relation to the church at Perry. 
They were men ' full of the Holy Ghost and of faith,' — men 
always ready to do good ; and we find it difficult to repress the 



480 . Georgia Baptists — BiograpJiical. 

inquiry : When shall we behold their like again ? To the labors 
of brother Holmes they doubtless owed much for their sym- 
metrical and well sustained characters as christian gentlemen, 
that have made their example so rich a heritage to the churches 
which were the scenes of their earnest and useful lives; and 
well may they mourn for them, now that they have passed 
away from the labors of earth to the reward of the faithful. 

Brother Holmes was a man of a high order of intellect, and 
as he had enjoyed the advantages for mental cultivation, few 
men were better qualified for the arduous and responsible duties 
of the public ministry ; and the Baptists of Southwestern Geor- 
gia are largely indebted to him, under God, for their present 
influence and power in the vineyard of the Lord. While at 
Cuthbert, he was elected president of Central Institute, located 
at Lynchburg, in the State of Alabama, which position he ac- 
cepted, but retained it only a short time. While at Lynchburg, 
he had something like a paralytic stroke, and it was deemed 
advisable by his physicians for him to relinquish his position 
and rest from active labors for a time, hoping thereby to restore 
his shattered health. Soon after his recovery from this attack, 
he was called to the pastorate of the First Baptist church in 
Atlanta, which relation he sustained for two or three years, 
loved and honored by a large and appreciative flock. In con- 
sequence of some disagreement which arose between him and 
a portion of the members, he resigned his charge and retired 
to the town of Decatur and labored for the churches in the 
country around, until compelled by ill health to relinquish the 
care of churches altogether. Returning to the city of Atlanta, 
his health began to improve so that he was able to resume the 
'active duties of the ministry, and for a time alternated with 
Dr. Shaver in supplying the pulpit of the Baptist church in 
!N~ewnan. But the seeds of decay were sown in his system, and 
again, in consequence of declining health, he was compelled to 
leave his post and learn to suffer his Master's will as well as to 
perform it. 

"During his last illness, the writer had several interviews with 
him, in which he expressed his unwavering trust in that Saviour 
whom he had preached to others, and he looked to the termi- 
nation of his earthly career with a calm and cheerful spirit, 



N. M. Crawford. 481 

which showed that when the summons should come, he would 
be ready ' to wrap the drapery of his couch about him and lie 
down to pleasant slumbers.' When he felt his end drawing- 
near, he sent word to the writer to visit him ; but, on account 
of other and pressing engagements, a compliance with the re- 
quest was impracticable, so that the last scenes of his valuable 
life must be drawn from information furnished by others, whose 
privilege it was to be present in ' the chamber where the good 
man met his fate.' In his last hours, though suffering from dif- 
ficulty of breathing, he found Jesus increasingly precious, and 
he who had been a fellow-laborer with Jacob King, Hiram Pow- 
ell, C. A. Tharp, C. D. Mallary, John E. Dawson and James 0. 
Screven, has gone to join them in 'that land which has no 
storm ;' and joyful, indeed, must be the meeting and communion 
of kindred spirits at the Saviour's blessed feet ! 

" He is gone — the able minister, the fast friend, the affection- 
ate husband, the indulgent father — and when these lines are 
read, there will be many tearful eyes, for some who once en- 
joyed his pious labors, or were his co-workers in the Lord's 
vineyard, and still linger on these mortal spheres, will receive 
their first information that another 'great man in Israel has 
fallen,' from this offering of affection and friendship. 

"An aged wife, now widowed and lone — an only son, now 
fatherless and sad — will mourn when they miss the manly form 
and beaming eye of the departed, but they will sorrow not as 
those without hope." 

N. M. CRAWFORD. 

In the " Christian Index" of November 2d, 1871, the following 
editorial article by Rev. D. Shaver, D. D., appeared : 

" REV. N. M. CRAWFORD, D. D. 

" This beloved and revered brother has been taken from us. 
Perhaps no announcement of our pen ever carried so keen a 
sense of pain to so large a number of hearts as these words 
must awaken. We share this grief in no common measure, 
though our personal acquaintance with Dr. Crawford lies wholly 
within the limits of the last few years. Among the highest 
31 



482 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

privileges of these years, we reckon the hours spent with him 
in the quiet of the room where we sit now — to see him here, 
alas! no more! The chief charm of our intercourse was, not 
his singular balance and poise of intellect, not the thorough 
learning that gave him the tread of a master in every field of 
inquiry, not the strong, ripe judgment which had wrestled pre- 
vailingly with all problems of ethics and theology — it was the 
equable temper, the dispassionate spirit, the transparent sin- 
cerity, the stainless sense of honor, the gentle affectionateness, 
breathing through his utterances from first to last. More than 
almost any person whom we have ever known, he withheld no 
word which, christian candor demanded, and spoke no word 
which christian charity forbade. Like that queenliest of graces, 
true greatness ' vaunteth not itself;' and he was l clothed upon ' 
with humility, with freedom from pretension, with childlikeness, 
as with a garment. There is a sense in which we may apply 
to saintly excellence the Hegelian principle: that 'the ideal is 
ever striving for realization, but is never realized ;' and who 
among us that survive more nearly exemplifies the 'ideal' of 
this excellence than he whom the Lord has taken to himself? 
In whose character is the struggle — the advance towards its 
1 realization,' traced in lines more like the Faultless Original 
than in his? Not simply to the effect of his instructions when 
occupying a chair in the Mercer University, or holding the 
presidency over it, is the denomination in the State indebted 
largely for its present position ; the formative and reproductive 
influence of his personal piety — of 'the daily beauty of his 
life ' — wrought still more potently to this end. But he is gone 
from us — gone, we cannot question, to enter upon what his own 
pen, a few months ago, burdened with the overpowering bless- 
edness of the theme, characterized, through our columns, as 
'that brighter, purer, richer, nobler, sweeter, grander, holier, 
happier life in the great beyond!' Let us follow his steps as 
he followed Christ, that we may all meet him in ' the city of 
the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem.' " 

" Our readers will review with mournful interest the story of 
his life as embodied in the following sketch of the address by 
Rev. A. T. Spalding, D. D., at the First Baptist Church, At- 



N. M. Crawford. 483 

lanta, last Monday morning, in connection with his funeral 
solemnities : 

" Nathaniel Macon Crawford was born at ' Woodlawn,' near 
Lexington, Oglethorpe county, G-eorgia, March 22d', 1811. His 
father, Hon. William H. Crawford, one of the ablest jurists this 
country ever produced, was that year re-elected to the United 
States Senate without opposition. The boyhood of our brother 
was spent in Washington City until his thirteenth year. In 
his fourteenth year, the family returned to Woodlawn, and in 
his fifteenth year he entered the University of Georgia, where 
he graduated at eighteen years of age, with the first honors of 
his class. He then read law, but never engaged in practice at 
the bar, though carrying with him through life the marked 
benefit of the knowledge of that science, and of the habit of 
analysis of words and weighing of testimony. (In 1834, at 
the age of sixty-two, his father died of paralysis, the same dis- 
ease that has deprived us of his distinguished son.) Three 
years later, we find him a professor in Oglethorpe College, 
Midway, a faithful servant of Jesus, a member of the Presby- 
terian church, a brilliant, gifted young man, who won all hearts 
to love him. After the lapse of three years more, he was mar- 
ried, when twenty-nine years of age, to her who now mourns 
this the first break in the household bands. 

" We come next to' the change in his ecclesiastical relations. 
His wife was a Baptist, but the points of difference between 
the two denominations never became subjects of discussion or 
allusion amid the intimacies of household life. On the birth of 
their first child, he determined to make the question of right 
and duty as to its baptism a subject of candid, thorough inves- 
tigation, nothing doubting that he should find the Presbyterian 
view supported by the scriptures, and furnish himself with ar- 
guments to overcome the scruples of his wife. To his surprise, 
however, on the perusal of our English version, and after the 
critical study of the original, infant baptism appeared to him 
utterly destitute of warrant from the Word of God. With the 
fidelity to principle which marked his entire life, he announced 
to his companion his purpose to be himself baptized ; and this 
was the first time the subject had ever been mentioned between 
them. To the credit of his former religious associates, let it 



484 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

be recorded, that this change did not in the least deprive him 
of their love and esteem. 

"It pleased the Lord to call our brother to the ministry of 
the gospel while living at the old ' Wdodlawn ' homestead, and 
for a year he served the ehlirch at Washington, Georgia, as 
pastor. He was then transferred to a larger field, succeeding 
the senior Dr. William T. Brantly in the pastorate of the First 
Baptist Church at Charleston, South Carolina. After a minis- 
try here of two years, he was elected to the chair of theology 
in Mercer University, which he filled with ability and accept- 
ance for ten years, from 1846 to 1856. During this time, his 
Sabbath preaching was never intermitted when able to occupy 
the pulpit. He was pastor of Friendship church, Greene county, 
afterward at Penfield, at Greensboro, also, and at one time at 
Shiloh. A great revival, with more than forty conversions, grew 
out of a graphic sermon which he preached at Penfield. 

" The first illness of Dr. Crawford occurred in 1851 or 1852, 
twenty years ago. While preaching at Lexington, Georgia, he 
suffered a stroke of paralysis in the midst of his discourse, and 
recovered from its effects only after a long time. From that 
period he never allowed himself to throw out his full strength 
in pulpit labor. 

" On the resignation of the venerable J. L. Dagg, D. D., our 
brother was elected to the presidency of Mercer University, 
but soon retired from the position and accepted the professor- 
ship of moral philosophy in the University of Mississippi, Ox- 
ford. After a residence of nearly a year at this point, in the 
fall of 1857 he became professor of theology in Georgetown, 
Kentucky. In the summer of 1858 he was re-elected President 
of Mercer University, and returned to spend seven years at the 
head of that institution. In 1865, the war having closed, and 
there being great depression in the funds of the University, he 
accepted the presidency of Georgetown College, Kentucky, a 
post which failing health compelled him to relinquish in June 
of the present year, when he came, ' with untraveled heart,' 
to Georgia again, the State of his life-long love, and the jDeople 
for whom, through nearly forty years, he never ceased to pray 
and labor. 

" On the 20th of September last, at the house of his son Wil- 



N.M. Crawford. 485 

liam, near Tunnel Hill, he was stricken a second time with 
paralysis. He fainted at the breakfast table, but rallied, and 
at the end of a week was better again. About the middle of 
October, however, he grew worse, and for four days was unable 
to speak. His brother, Dr. Bibb Crawford, of Madison, was 
summoned to his side; but the Angel Messenger had called! 
He breathed his last on Friday, October 27th, at half-past three 
o'clock p. M., in the bosom of his family, and at peace with 
God and men. 

"Dr. Crawford was a man of surpassing talents. His knowl- 
edge of history, philosophy, mathematics, law, ethics, religion, 
and ecclesiastical history, was clear and profound. His wisdom 
made him a valued counselor in our Associations and Conven- 
ventions. His mind was brilliant, his fancy luxuriant, and his 
oratorical powers of the first order. His productions as an 
author have the savor of the old English works. He was a 
man of highest moral excellence, which shone with peculiar 
brightness in all the relationships of life. His christian charac- 
ter was not only without a blemish, but was exalted in an emi- 
next degree. Consecration to Jesus reigned through his life of 
untiring industry, of profound humility, of childlike simplicity, 
of wide-spread benevolence, adorned withal by a genial flow of 
pleasant humor. While we mournfully bend over his sacred dust, 
.his sanctified spirit has gone to that land of everlasting bliss, of 
which he so often and so eloquently spoke. He is now enjoy- 
ing the rest of the saints under the shadow of the Great White 
Throne — nay, let us rather say, on the bosom of the Eedeemer, 
his and ours." 

Dr. William T. Brantly of Baltimore, says : 

" My acquaintance with Dr. Crawford began in 1844, shortly 
after my first pastoral settlement, and shortly after Dr. Craw- 
ford had connected himself with the Baptist church. Thrown 
together at an Association in the country, and occupying the 
same room and the same bed, we had the opportunity of ex- 
changing views on a great variety of topics. I must confess 
to feeling, at the time, considerable pride in the acquisition to 
our ranks of the son of man who, in ,his day, had been the' most 
distinguished citizen in the State (the Hon. William H. Craw- 



486 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

ford,) especially when the son was as distinguished as a scholar 
as the father had been as a statesman. In early youth, Dr. 
Crawford connected himself with the Presbyterian church. 
When, however, he became the father of children, he determ- 
ined to examine the scriptures, with the view of ascertaining 
whether these sanctioned those articles of his church which 
required the baptism of infants. He brought to the subject 
the whole force of his keen and discriminating intellect; but 
he could discover no thus saith the Lord for poedo-Baptism. 
Pushing his inquiries further, he became convinced that noth- 
ing is baptism but a 'burial with Christ.' Acting out his con- 
victions, without conferring with flesh and blood, he presented 
himself for membership in the Baptist church most convenient 
to his residence. At this time, no layman in the Presbyterian 
church in Georgia was more esteemed than he. Professor of 
mathematics in their college, in high repute for learning and 
moral worth, he could have commanded any office in their gift. 
But, constrained by principle, he joined a Baptist church in the 
country, and thereby relinquished all these prospects. 

" Dr. Crawford was soon licensed, and then ordained. He 
was a pastor for one year in Washington, Georgia, and the same 
length of time in Charleston, South Carolina. He then identi- 
fied himself with Mercer University, where, as professor of 
theology, and subsequently as President, he passed many years 
of his life. Prior to the war, he was a professor for one year 
in a college in Mississippi, and for about the same time in Ken- 
tucky. In 1865, he became President of Georgetown College, 
Kentucky, where he remained until last summer, when here- 
signed and returned to his native State. 

"Dr. Crawford's scholarship was accurate and extensive. 
Connected with the class in which he graduated, in the Univer- 
sity of Georgia, there were young men of decided mental power, 
and they subsequently made their marks on their age ; but at 
college he led them all, bearing oif the first honor. The Presi- 
dent of the University remarked to the writer that no young 
man had ever been connected with the institution who posses- 
sed such remarkable powers for the acquisition af knowledge 
as did our departed brother. This scholarship he maintained 
through life. While president of the college he could take the 



N.M. Crawford. 487 

post of any professor who was temporarily absent, hearing a 
recitation in the higher branches of mathematics, or chemistry, 
or natural philosophy, or Latin, or Greek, with as much facili- 
ty as though it had been the department specially confided to 
his care. 

"As a preacher, Dr. Crawford did not, ordinarily, equal the 
expectations which his acknowledged talent and scholarship 
had awakened. There were times, indeed, when he spoke with 
commanding eloquence and the most melting pathos. His dis- 
courses, too, were uniformly sensible and instructive. With 
his piety and attainments they could scarcely have been other- 
wise. But his mind did not seem, as a general rule, to grasp 
and elucidate his theme with that masterly force which one 
would expect from its native vigor. He was often defective 
in analytical power; he needed what Horace so aptly terms 
the lucidus ordo, the shining order, which invests even com- 
mon-place thoughts with interest, and without which the best 
thoughts produce but little impression. Still, he was always 
heard with interest, and must be ranked among the most pop- 
ular and effective preachers of his day. 

" There was one trait of character for which our brother was 
remarkable, and that is candor. No man despised more than 
did he misrepresentation or flattery. To his most intimate 
friends he was perfectly outspoken on the subject of their faults. 
When his opinion was sought about men or things you might be 
assured that nothing was exaggerated or suppressed. Correct 
or incorrect, you heard his honest sentiments. Charity, too, 
went hand in hand with his frankness. Without guile himself, 
he suspected none in others, unless the proof of its existence 
was too obvious to be resisted. His heart was tender and sym- 
pathetic. He was readily touched by the sufferings of others, 
and he was always ready to relieve them, so far as his circum- 
stances permitted. Failing to see him, as had been expected, 
at our Southern Baptist Convention in Baltimore, in 1868, I 
asked him subsequently why he was not present? 'I fully in- 
tended to go,' he replied, l and had put away fifty dollars to 
pay my traveling expenses ; but a day or two before the time of 
leaving, I received a letter from a friend in distress, begging me, 
if possible, to help him a little. So I sent him the fifty dollars 



488 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

saved for Convention expenses, and I remained at home.' Here 
was an act of charity which, but for my question, would never 
have transpired. Many such, I have no doubt, would be dis- 
closed, were the secret history of our brother's life given to the 
world. Strangers and slight acquaintances might think our 
brother reserved and reticent, but those who knew him better 
found in him a companion most genial and communicative. 
His memory was peculiarly tenacious. He seemed always to 
have at command everything he had ever read or heard. 
Though far removed from levity, his conversations abounded 
with humor, and he seemed to have an inexhaustible fund of 
anecdote or of incident with which to illustrate a truth or to 
entertain a friend. When, at some future day, the historian 
takes up his pen to do for Georgia Baptists what Dr. Taylor 
has done for those of "Virginia, Crawford will be remembered 
as one to whom God gave intellectual endowments of the first 
order, and who improved his talents by assiduous culture, 
adding to mental qualities moral excellencies which made him 
a man of generous soul, of unswerving integrity and conscien- 
tious devotion to the truth as it is in Jesus." 

The following letter, addressed to the author, was written in 
response to an appeal to him, through the same medium, that 
he would write more frequently for the press — urging, among 
other things, that he had seen a picture of Dr. Crawford, which 
showed that he was "getting old," etc. 

"A LETTER FROM DR. CRAWFORD. 

" Brother Campbell: I have noticed your request in the ' In- 
dex,' and in compliance, I send this letter to the 'Index man,' 
with instruction ' if not delivered in ten days,' to forward to 
Eev. Jesse H. Campbell, Thomasville, Georgia. 

"You say I am 'getting old.' In all your preaching you 
never said a truer thing. Yet there is one part of me, at least, 
that has not experienced the effect of age, and if you could see 
a faithful photograph of my heart you would surely * recog- 
nize' it, for its affections are as fresh, full and warm as 'in 
childhood's happy hour.' 

' I have, indeed, grown old, and this day week (22d) I cele- 



N. M. Crawford. 489 

brated my sixtieth anniversary, on a Kentucky dinner of fish, 
closing with the favorite dessert of the season : pancake and 
molasses. But how mistaken are those who consider age an 
evil! 'Length of days is in her right hand, and in her left 
hand, riches and honor.' ' With long life will I satisfy him, and 
shew him my salvation.' Yet, while God promises long life as 
a blessing, and most men desire long life, there is, with many, 
a feeling that old age is an evil and a pity for old people. Now, 
I know of no reason for such feeling, but the undeniable fact 
that old age is nearer death than youth. But does that make 
old age an evil ? If it is truth as well as poetry, that 

'Death is the gate to endless joys,' 

why should its nearness to the old make age an evil ? 

" On a delicious May evening, ten years ago, as I was sitting 
in my verandah at Penfield, my colleague and friend, H. H. 
Tucker, came in. After he was seated, I said, 'I have just 
been reflecting that I am now fifty years old, and I would not 
be a day younger if I could. For now, even if my life should 
be extended to the Psalmist's three-score and ten, I am safely 
over two-thirds of the pilgrimage. If I should die now, I would 
leave my children a name which they could bear without re- 
proach, and an example which they might follow without shame. 
And I have no fears that the good providence, which has hith- 
erto protected me amid dangers, sustained me in trials and 
saved me in temptations, will forsake me till I enter the blessed 
life.' Such was my feeling and such my trust then. Since that 
pleasant evening, ten years have elapsed. How slowly, yet how 
swiftly have they passed. A decade unsurpassed in its momen- 
tous history by any equal period since Christ died upon the 
cross. In this hemisphere, a territory of near half a million of 
square miles trampled by the iron heel of war for four years, 
and six millions of people smitten by the iron hand of despot- 
ism for six years, and all in the name of fraternity ; while on the 
other hemisphere, the oldest nation of Europe, of the proudest 
history in the past, and which, for eighty years, has done more 
for liberty than any other nation of the continent, was, in six 
months, devastated and subjugated by the most thoroughly or- 
ganized despotism of the old world. The decade has brought 



490 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

me to sixty — a decade full of wretchedness and woe in our na- 
tional affairs, yet how tempered, especially to me, with mercies 
and blessings ! And now that I am a presbuteros in years as 
well as in office, this bleak March day, sitting by my comforta- 
ble coal fire in Kentucky, I repeat to you what, ten years ago, 
in the shades of a May evening, breathing the sweet odor of 
roses, I said to brother Tucker : ' I would not be a day younger 
if I could.' 

" Ten more milestones have been marked off in my journey 
of life, and ten stations nearer to the city above. And if these 
ten years of war, and blood, and cruelty, and tyranny have, 
after all, by His grace, been years of so much enjoyment here, 
what may we not hope in the blessed hereafter. We have not 
lost, but passed, ten years of life here, and are so much nearer 
that brighter, purer, richer, nobler, sweeter, grander, holier, 
happier life in the great beyond. These are feelings, hopes, con- 
fidences common to you and me, and many others, whose forms 
and names come rushing to my eyes and heart. Can that old 
age be an evil which fills the mind and heart with thoughts 
and emotions like these? 

" But though age is no evil, sickness is ; and I have been sick, 
and am not well yet. In December, a cold and cough caught me. 
As the winter advanced, the cough became worse, and I was 
confined to the house all the month of February. I am now 
better. Happily, the spring has been milder than usual, and 
the season is three weeks in advance of what is common. 
Every pleasant day improves my health. 'Doctor's truck,' as 
the * beloved physician,' (Dr. "W". B. Crawford, his brother) calls 
it, does me no good. Instead of cod liver oil, I have been, and 
am still, taking (for dinner) broiled middling, (streak of lean 
and streak of fat.) Under this regimen, with pretty weather, 
I am gaining strength rapidly, and my cough does not trouble 
me at all when quiet, though a little exercise brings it on. It 
is nearly four months since I preached, and I have thought 
that, perhaps, my preaching days are over. I recollect that 
Dr. Olin, the greatest man the Methodist church ever produced 
in this country, said that he had two great struggles in this life. 
The first was, when he got his own consent to give up the world 
to be a preacher for Christ, and the last when, in consequence 



N. M. Crawford. 491 

of broken health, he could yield to the providence which silenced 
him in the pulpit. I had no such trials in entering the ministry, 
having glided into it so insensibly that I was a preacher almost 
before I knew it. Nor, .if it is G-od's will to silence me, shall I 
have any struggle in .submitting. I have never felt any anxiety 
or uneasiness about a field of labor, confident that, if the Lord 
had work for me to do, He would send me where it was to be 
done. Under this conviction, I have lived and labored. With 
this conviction, I shall still labor, if called to labor, or be still, 
if called to be still. The Lord knoweth. 

"So, my dear brother, I have complied with your request. 
My communication is all about myself; you will read it with no 
less interest on that account. If the 'Index men ' think it un- 
suitable to their paper, they will forward it to you. 

" To all who may read it, I beg leave to sign it as their friend 
and brother in Christ Jesus, 

" N. M. Crawford. 

"March 29, 1871." 

The foregoing letter is believed to be the last article from the 
pen of Dr. Crawford that was ever published. His health soon 
grew worse, and he " ceased from his labors." 

A few additional remarks by the author, and this brief sketch 
must be closed. Dr. Crawford ever seemed to preach under re- 
straint, owing, doubtless, to his consciousness of danger from 
paralysis, an attack of which he had in early life, and from a 
renewal of which he finally died. On a few occasions, however, 
the author heard him when this habitual restraint was over- 
come. In a sermon delivered at Albany during an Association, 
a large congregation was swayed, melted, overwhelmed by his 
eloquence in a manner that he has seldom seen equaled, and 
never surpassed, by any preacher. During a session of the 
Georgia Baptist Convention at Newnan, he followed the mis- 
sionary, Buckner, in an appeal for the Indians of surpassing 
power and pathos, though he spoke only about twenty minutes. 
The effect was such that, before he closed, his hearers, almost 
en masse, rose from their seats and, pressing towards a table 
near which he was standing, threw their contributions upon it, 
amounting to about fifteen hundred dollars. He had all the ele- 



492 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

merits of a powerful speaker, but dared not give them free 
scope. 

Dr. Crawford was "of a meek and quiet spirit." A news- 
paper correspondence, on an exciting subject, was progressing 
between him and a distinguished brother of an imperious and 
fiery temper. A friend wrote to Crawford, • cautioning him 
against being provoked to bitterness or undue severity. He re- 
plied in a spirit of meekness, thanking his friend for his faith- 
fulness, and aading, in substance, "I am guarding the point 
upon which you warn me ; and, as you are such a wife-man 
yourself, I will tell you how : I have promised my wife to sub- 
mit all my articles to her for revision, and, of course, there is 
no danger of my publishing anything harsh." And so it turned 
out. By the use of soft words and hard arguments, he fairly de- 
molished his antagonist. 

He delighted in the company of his friends, and entertained 
them with princely hospitality. Who ever felt otherwise than 
welcome and at ease in Crawford's house ? And as a guest 
among his friends, he was one of the most agreeable and fasci- 
nating of men. In his manners, there was familiarity without 
bluntness, dignity without pretension, and gravity without aus- 
terity. He was, indeed, "a gentleman of the old school," ever 
more concerned for the enjoyment of others than for his own. 
The author can safely affirm that he has never known a more per- 
fect character. In stature, he was below the medium height, of 
symmetrical form, full head of black curling hair, and spark- 
ling dark eyes. 



JOHN H. CLAEK. 

" The subject of this sketch was the son of William and Mary 
Clark, of Putnam county, Georgia, and was born on the 30th 
of November, 1796. The father, William Clark, was a man 
without reproach, a most excellent citizen and worthy member 
of the Baptist church. The mother, Mary Clark, was a mem- 
ber of the same church, and one of the most pious and exem- 
plary women of her day. Her life was a constant commentary 
on the truths and efficacy of the christian religion. Her maiden 
name was Harvey. She belonged to an extensive family of 



John H. Clark 493 

that name, who, by inter-marriage, connected themselves with 
many of the leading names of this State. She was not simply 
a professor of religion, but a worker, and in all the relations of 
life she illustrated all the christian graces. She departed this 
life on November 8th, 1830, in the full assurance of faith. Her 
husband, who had been led to the Saviour by her godly life, 
was overwhelmed by the sad event and expressed an earnest 
desire to follow her. His wish was gratified, and the Lord 
took him to himself on the 16th of January, 1831, two months 
and a half after the death of his consort. 

"The sons of this family were Jeremiah, John, James and 
Benjamin. The only daughter was Charity, who married Jones 
Kendrick. They spent the last quarter of their lives in Hous- 
ton county. She was also a devoted and highly prized member 
of the Baptist church, and her works live after her. She fin- 
ished her course and went up higher in August, 1867, some 
four months after the death of her brother John, the subject of 
this sketch. 

kt John Harvey Clark, the subject of this memoir, was born in 
Greene county, and, when in his infancy, his father moved to 
Putnam county, then a wilderness. He is supposed to be 
among the very first settlers of that county. The lands were 
granted by the State after he came. He bought a settlement 
on Little river and built a neat, comfortable house, where he 
resided up to the time of his death. The country was new and 
rough, and the means of education very limited. The boys had 
to work on the farm, and going to school was only an occa- 
sional occupation. Still something in this way was done, and 
means were provided to furnish some of the children with more 
than ordinary advantages. John, however, did not enjoy these 
advantages. He was a plough-boy, and his schooling was con- 
fined to a slight knowledge of the usual elementary branches. 
In early life he inter-married with Elizabeth, the daughter of 
James Kendrick, who still survives him — a woman of slight 
educational advantages, but of fine personal appearance, and of 
marked and decided character. Industrious to a fault, with 
sound practical sense, great fortitude, and of rare determina- 
tion, self-reliance and courage. With limited means, she has 
had the care of a large family on her hands, but failure in no 



494 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

sense has ever resulted from want of fidelity and untiring en- 
ergy on her part. She has ever been a toiler, and her toils, 
which but few women could stand, have not been in vain. In 
comparative health, having passed her threescore and ten, she is 
descending the plane of life with mind clear and unclouded, and 
her trust in God firm and unshaken. In a few more years at 
most, she will enter "that rest" which is reserved for the faith- 
ful, toiling followers of the Saviour. 

" The subject of this sketch was a farmer, and the manhood of 
his life was spent in that avocation. It cannot be said that he 
was a successful farmer. For a man of his means and large family, 
his habits were too expensive. He ever kept open house for the 
accommodation and comfort of all comers, and in this respect 
his hospitality was extravagant. No one ever failed to find 
shelter under his roof, and no one ever called on him in vain 
for help. He sold corn to his needy neighbors at fifty cents a 
bushel, and bought the same season at one dollar a bushel. He 
joined the Baptist church some ten years after marriage, and 
from that time to the day of his death, his house was a home 
for ministers of all denominations and for every penniless man 
and woman. It was utterly impossible for him to resist ap- 
peals, and he gave, when, by so doing, he put in jeopardy the 
comfort of his own family. He would divide the last loaf with' 
the beggar, who would smile at his liberality. When he resided 
in Putnam county, on meeting-days his house was thronged 
with people, The dinner table was spread from noon until 
night. As soon as the preaching was over, he would make it a 
special business to see all visitors and invite them home with 
him. And nearly all went. This excessive liberality was too 
great for his limited means, and he was compelled to forego it 
in after years. If it was a fault, it proceeded from the best of 
motives. He loved everybody and wanted to make^them com- 
fortable, and delighted in social enjoyments. His heart was a 
w T ell of human kindness, ever springing up, and then overflow- 
ing. His servants were spoiled by this excessive kindness, and 
his children would have been endangered from the same source 
but for the strong hand and disciplinary power of the mother. 
He harbored malice toward none, and if he ever became angry, 
the sun went not down on his wrath. 



John H. Clarh. 495 

" He joined the Enon Baptist church, Putnam county, about 
the year 1828, and was baptized by Eev. James Henderson. 
This was before the great division of the Baptist family into 
mission and anti-mission, bodies. When the division took place, 
Enon church allied herself with the anti-mission movement as 
a member of the Ocmulgee Association. Soon thereafter he 
withdrew, and with a few others worshiped in the neighbor- 
hood at a school-house under the patronage of the Eatonton 
church. The nucleus of a church was gathered together under 
the ministry of Eev. J. H. Campbell, who was then a young 
man, and labored with great zeal and efficiency in building up 
the Baptist, interest in that region. 

" Ramoth church was formed out of such elements as had left 
Enon and such others as had professed a faith, and Mr. Camp- 
bell was chosen pastor. The subject of this sketch was one of 
the deacons. The relation between pastor and deacon was^ever 
harmonious, as he can testify, and he can bear witness to the 
zeal of the deacon, for they were ever fast friends and co-la- 
borers in the vineyard. He entered the ministry late in life — 
at least when the prime of his manhood was past, with but few 
advantages and but a remote prospect of success. But from 
the time of his giving himself to the pastoral work up to within 
a short time of his death, and until feeble health compelled him 
to desist, he labored zealously and earnestly for the Master and 
the good of souls. For several years his labors were given to 
Putnam, Jones and Baldwin counties. In 1854 he removed 
with his family to Houston and served churches in that county, 
Macon, Dooly and Lee. It cannot be said that he was an able 
preacher. He never laid claim to any such pretensions. His 
previous occupation, his limited education and his advanced 
age, precluded all such aspirations. All his aim was to do good 
and be an humble instrument of winning souls to Christ. In 
this respect, it may be said that he was successful in an unusual 
degree. The churches prospered under his ministry, and many 
souls were added to them. Many are now living in the several 
counties named who owe their conversion, under God, to his 
efforts, and the remembrance of the deceased pastor is dear and 
precious to them. He was ever willing for others to wear the 



496 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

crown, and envied no man his greatness. Hence he was highly 
esteemed for his labors. 

" This is the humble pastor's reward — to labor faithfully in 
the vineyard and win souls to Christ. The honors of the world, 
the applause of multitudes, do not seduce them from this work. 
Their best efforts are subject to criticism, but if they present 
the cross, so as to awaken sinners and induce them to come to 
Christ, great is their reward. The poor husbandman who has 
toiled for the Master, w T ith but few of the praises of men to 
cheer him, when he enters at last into his rest, bringing his 
sheaves with him, can thank God that his labors have been 
blessed — can present them as trophies of his victory in the 
name of Christ, and shout unceasing anthems of redeeming 
grace. 

~ " The subject of this sketch died on the 23d of April, 1867. His 
health was quite feeble for months before his decease, so much so 
as to debar him from active work, and from all work toward 
the close. A very few days before his death, in answer to a 
letter of inquiry from a member of his family about his spiritual 
condition, in view of the great change which must soon take 
place, he said that he had nothing to commend him to the Sa- 
viour — that he was a poor sinner, without merit and without 
claim on the divine favor, and that he relied solely on the Sa- 
viour, and that all hopes of salvation were in his blood. In a 
few days he passed away. The message came at night, and 
within a few hours death claimed him as his own. But his 
works follow him, and his name and his fame are still fresh in 
the hearts of his brethren with whom he was associated. 

" Judge James M. Clark, of Americus, an eminent civilian and 
worthy christian gentleman, is a son of his, and all the mem- 
bers of his family are highly respectable." 

DK. CULL EN BATTLE. 

The name of Dr. Cullen Battle is entitled to a place in this 
record of Georgia Baptists. Though for a number of years a 
citizen of another State, and not a minister of the gospel, yet 
his long residence in Georgia, and his prominent connection with 
the early movements of the denomination, his liberal support 



Dr. Cullen Battle. 497 

of our institutions and his unabated interest in all our enter- 
prises, identify him closely with the Baptists of this common- 
wealth. 

Dr. Battle was born in Edgecombe county, North Carolina, 
March 11th, 1785. An old family record furnishes the following 
information of his ancestry : About the year 1700, William 
Battle emigrated from England to Yirginia. Like most of the 
English settlers in that famed old commonwealth, he was a 
member of the Church of England. His son Elisha, however, 
married and removed to Edgecombe, North Carolina, and be- 
came a Baptist. He was a man of great strength of character 
and piety, and exerted an extensive influence. The youngest 
of his six sons was Dempsey, the father of the subject of this 
sketch. Dempsey Battle had three sons, Cullen, Andrews and 
John. The two elder were educated as physicians, the young- 
est was killed by an accident. Cullen Battle received his med- 
ical education at the University of Pennsylvania, and was an 
enthusiastic disciple of the eminent physician and patriot Ben- 
jamin Push. After several years of successful practice in his 
native State, he retired from the profession to prosecute his 
constantly increasing agricultural interests. 

He was twice married : first to Miss Elizabeth, sister of his 
cousin, James S. Battle, who survived the marriage but twenty 
months ; and secondly to Miss Jane Lamon, of Wake county, 
who has been spared to be a life-long companion. Dr. Battle 
removed from North Carolina to Powelton, Hancock county, 
Georgia, in 1818. There he professed faith in the Saviour and 
was baptized in 1827 by the great and good Jesse Mercer, his 
wife having been baptized three years before by the same min- 
ister. In Powelton he took a deep interest in the cause of 
Christ, became at once an active and useful church member, 
leading in every good work, serving faithfully in the office of 
deacon, and being, in every place, an example of christian in- 
tegrity, activity, fidelity and liberality. His large means ena- 
bled him to exercise a generous hospitality, and his house was 
ever open to friend and stranger. When a traveling minister 
chanced to pass through Powelton — and the village in those 
days was on the highway of travel — he went directly to the 
house of brother Battle, where he was sure to find a warm wel- 
32 



498 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

come and comfortable home. Dr. Battle was an enthusiastic 
friend of education. He was prominently identified with the 
management and control of the fine academies for which Pow- 
elton, in those early days, was famous; and Mercer University 
never had a warmer or more generous friend. He stands next 
to Mercer himself, on the list of contributors to this noble in- 
stitution. He was also ever an ardent friend and contributor 
to the missionary cause, the Bible cause, the Sunday-school 
cause, the temperance cause, and the cause of evangelizing the 
slave population in our midst. Though an unshaken believer 
in the scriptural and moral rightfulness of the "peculiar insti- 
tution," he always held it to, be the duty of masters to give to 
their slaves the bread of life. His own very large family of 
blacks never lacked for the ministration of the word, and when 
no regular preacher was at hand, he would himself proclaim, 
with earnestness and power, the everlasting gospel. If ever a 
master did the full measure of his duty as a christian instructor 
to his slaves, that man was Cullen Battle. For years and years, 
it was his. custom to gather the blacks of the community to- 
gether on every Sabbath afternoon and teach them the truth 
as it is in Jesus. His instructions combined the soundest evan- 
gelism with the highest lessons of morality for their daily lives 
and their intercourse with each other. 

He was never in favor of restraining them from acquiring 
the rudiments of education. The writer has often heard him 
denounce the laws and the public sentiment which forbade 
them to learn to read and write. Indeed, it is well known that 
these restrictions were forced upon the Southern people by the 
fanatical course pursued by the abolitionists of the North, and 
but for this ill-advised interference, no prohibitory statutes of 
this kind would ever have been found in our Codes. 

Dr. Battle removed from Powelton to Eufaula, (then Irwin- 
ton,) Alabama, in the year 1836. At this time the Creek In- 
dians had not left Alabama, and often gave much trouble to the 
early settlers. Di\ Battle did not escape the misfortunes inci- 
dent to a home among these savages. More than once, by, the 
sudden incursions of these treacherous foes, his property was 
destroyed and crops abandoned. But his characteristic energy, 



Dr. Cullen Battle. 499 

under heaven, triumphed over obstacles and reverses, and his 
affairs prospered. 

Soon after reaching Eufaula, he became anxious to see a 
church established in that young but growing place. In com- 
pany with the lamented General Eeuben C. Shorter and others, 
a church was constituted in 1838, and by the active efforts of 
these brethren, under the blessing of God, it became a power in 
the community. Having been blessed with the ministry of 
Tryon, Pattison, Matthews, Henderson, Mcintosh, Yau Hoose, 
Reeves, Wharton and Kinnebrew, it has grown to be one of 
the largest and most influential churches in Alabama. And yet 
we hazard nothing in saying, that to no human instrument is 
more of its solid prosperity due than to deacon Cullen Battle. 

In 1853 he removed to Tuskegee, Alabama, where he again 
became conspicuous for christian enterprise and benevolence. 
He was one of the chief contributors to the East Alabama Fe- 
male College, which for so many years dispensed the benefits 
of education to the daughters of Alabama. He aided also, to a 
large extent, in the erection of the beautiful and costly house 
of worship in that town. Here, as in Eufaula and Powelton, 
he seemed to feel a special responsibility for the religious cul- 
ture of the blacks, and scarcely a Sunday afternoon passed by 
that did not find him actively engaged in teaching them the 
scriptures. 

Every good cause commended itself at once to his liberality. 
In the subscription books of the agencies of every branch of 
christian benevolence, his name was often inscribed with 
amounts annexed, testifying to the largeness of his heart and 
the profuseness of his benefactions. 

But war and desolation came on, and his old age has been 
saddened by the privations that have been his lot since the 
close of hostilities. His immense estate has been scattered to 
the winds, and his chief regret is that he can no longer con- 
tribute to those objects which formerly claimed not only his 
heart but his purse. But his deeds are not forgotten. His 
works of faith and labors of love have already produced har- 
vests of blessing, and are treasured in the book of remem- 
brance. Yet he claims no merit for these, believing that he 



500 Georgia Baptists — Biographical. 

only did what it was his duty to do, and that, after all, he is 
but an unprofitable servant. 

Dr. Battle has just passed his eighty-ninth birthday, and, hap- 
py in the companionship of the devoted partner of his bosom, in 
the society of his only daughter, with whom he is now living 
in Eufaula, and in the hope of a blessed immortality through 
the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour, he is tranquilly 
passing the days that yet remain to him on earth, awaiting 
the summons to join the hosts that have already crossed the 
flood, in the glorious city of our God. Like a shock of corn 
fully ripe, he is ready to be gathered to the garner of the skies. 

Dr. Battle has three children living, viz : Mary J. Shorter, 
(widow of that noble statesman, jurist and christian, ex-Gover- 
nor John Gill Shorter,) Eev. Archibald J. Battle, D. D., the 
present President of Mercer University, and Major-General 
Cullen A. Battle, ex-officer of the Confederate States Army. 
A promising son, Junius Kincaid Battle, died at the age of 
twenty-one, a year after his marriage. 

Dr. Andrews Battle, next younger brother of the subject of 
our sketch, died in LaGrange, Georgia, in 1842. He was noted 
for his modest piety and christian integrity — a saint-like man, 
beloved of all who knew him. 



INDEX. 



HISTORICAL. 

Page. 

Preface 5 

Introduction of Baptist Sentiments into the State 9 

Increase of the Denomination 14 

Benevolent Institutions 16 

Baptist Convention of the State of Georgia 18 



ASSOCIATIONS. 



Bethel 125 

Columbus 99 

Central 115 

Chattahoochee 96 

Ebenezer ,. 79 

Flint River 94 

Georgia 55 

Hephzibah 73 

Houston 113 

Itchaconnah Ill 

New Sunbury 134 

Ocmulgee 76 

Ocmulgee, (Junior) 79 



Piedmont 83 

Rock Mountain, 114 

Rehoboth 123 

Sarepta 71 

Savannah River 75 

Sunbury 84 

Tugalo River 91 

United 110 

Western 106 

Washington 112 

Yellow River.. ..* 93 

Division on Missions 136 



LITERARY INSTITUTIONS. 

Mercer University » 139 

Hearn School 151 

Cherokee Baptist College 154 

Washington Institute 157 

Monroe Female University 158 

Bethel Female College 160 



502 



Index. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



Page. 

Armstrong, James 274 

Ansley, Marlin 421 

Bacon, Augustus 270 

Battle, Dr. Cullen 496 

Bedgewood, Nicholas 183 

Bledsoe, Miller 193 

Botsford, Edmund 167 

Brantly, William T 208 

Byne, Edmund 238 

Cartledge, Samuel 207 

Clay, Joseph 280 

Conner, Wilson. 275 

Cooper, John W 378 

Collins, Henry 417 

Carter, James 369 

Callaway, William A 370 

Callaway, Joshua S 359 

Clark, John H 492 

Crawford, Nathaniel M 481 

Davis, William 178 

Davis,' Jonathan 399 

Davis, Jesse M 403 

Dunham, Jacob H 204 

Dennard, Jared Sanders 440 

Dawson, John E 473 

Fleming, Robert 422 

Goss, Horatio J 430 

Goss, Benjamin v .. 431 

Granberry, George 427 

Hand, Henry 285 

Holcomb, Henry* 184 

Holmes Adam T 476 

James, John 375 

Johnson, Jarvis G 451 



King, Jacob 432 

Kilpatrick, J. H. T 381 

Law, Samuel S 255 

Law, Josiah S 322 

Lumpkin, Jack 309 

Marshall, Daniel 173 

Marshall, Jabez P 251 

Matthews, James 230 



Page. 

Mall art, Charles D 452 

Mercer, Silas 226 

Mercer, Jesse 311 

Milner, John , 301 

Milker, John H 376 

Moselt, Elijah 278 

Moselt, William 363 

Newton, William 425 

Polhill, Thomas 184 

Polhill, Joseph 406 

Posey, Humphrey 354 

Perryman, Elisha 333 

Perryman, James 448 

Postell, Edward P 304 

Penfield, Josiah— (Deacon)... 428 

Reeves, Jeremiah 248 

Reeves, James 319 

Rhodes, Thomas 206 

Ross, John 277 

Savage, Loveless 278 

Scott, Alexander 193 

Screven, Charles 195 

Screven, James 449 

Stocks, Hon. Thomas 352 

Singleton, William •.. 398 

Sweet, George D 296 

Sherwood, Adiel. 413 

Swanson, James F 466 

Sanders, Billington M. 313 

Tharp, Vincent.. 247 

Thornton, Dozier 241 

Thornton, Vincent 339 

Travis, Jesse 294 

Trice, Thomas C 366 

Vining, Jeptha 253 

Walsh, Thomas 245 

Warren, Kittrel 290 

Whatley, Samuel 282 

Winn, Thomas Sumner 276 

Wilkes, Thomas U 410 

W t yer, Henry Otis 326 

420 














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